Yet, though without a direct role, Israeli defense technology and expertise has is found its way in many important weapons systems employed by the United States in the War in Iraq. Originally these weapons were developed to protect Israel and have proved their worthiness in battle. The process leading to their inclusion in the American weaponry was a result of many years of collaboration, testing, trials and accreditation procedures preceded their adaptation. Israeli weapons designers took into account the country's small population and sensitivity to the loss of life. This suited the American doctrine. Consequently, Israel weaponry and arms technology, which has been incorporated into the U.S. military establishment, is being used in the war against Iraq.
One such system is the Israeli-designed HUNTER RQ-5 Alpha unmanned aerial vehicle in use by the U.S. Army to scout Iraqi defenses.
Israel and the United States are developing an air-to-ground missile for the F-16 multi-role fighter. The missile is called the HaveLite and is a smaller and lighter version of Israel's Popeye missile. The Popeye has been deployed on the F-15 fighter-jet, however, it is regarded as too heavy for the smaller F-16. The HaveLite development program is a joint venture of Lockheed Martin and Rafael, Israel Armament Development Authority. About three years ago, both companies signed an agreement to develop a lighter version of the Popeye, called the AGM-142 in the United States, for the F-16.
Night vision goggles are in use by American forces Iraq. While not publicly reported it is very likely that the American Army's Bradley fighting vehicles are guided by on-board computers supplied by a subsidiary of Israel's Elbit Systems, according to reports published the Jaffee
Center for Strategic Studies at Tel Aviv University. The Center publishes authoritative statistics about the military capabilities of the countries of the Middle East.
According to Jane's, Israel made more than $3.5 billion in arms sales last year, approximately equal to Russia's massive arms export industry. Only the United States and Britain sold more, Jane's reported.Besides the United States, Israel's top customers include Turkey, India, Brazil, Canada and Germany.
Israel has acceded to America's request not to participate directly in the War in Iraq. An Israeli participation is viewed as an unnecessary provocation of America's Arab and Muslim coalition partners. Of the more than 50 Coalition Partners of the United States only Great Britain and Australia have contribute soldiers. Other nations have allowed over flights of their territories or the use of air basis for American planes and personnel.