فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
British Defense Minister John Healy announced a surprising decision to terminate the “Watchkeeper Mk 1” drone program by March 2025, a move that sparked Israeli discontent and mixed reactions.
Healy stated that the British Army needs to update its capabilities to meet modern military requirements, highlighting the necessity of transitioning to an advanced system that leverages the latest technological developments.
The decision comes after the program faced several challenges, with its cost exceeding 1.3 billion pounds sterling instead of the expected 800 million pounds. The British Army plans to replace the current system with more advanced technologies, which will save around 500 million pounds over 5 years.
The manufacturers of the drones, Israeli company Elbit Systems in cooperation with Thales, who developed the aircraft based on the “Hermes 450” design known as “Zik”, now face economic and reputational challenges.
The decision sparked clear dissatisfaction in Israeli media and raised concerns about its potential impact on Israeli defense industries. In contrast, Palestinian officials celebrated the announcement, considering it a symbolic victory.
The drones, previously used for intelligence gathering and attacks, had previously been shot down by Hezbollah in previous conflicts.
This decision represents a strategic shift in British defense policy and underscores the importance of continuous renewal of military capabilities in the face of contemporary challenges.
