YEREVAN. – There has been no official confirmation of Israel's deal with Azerbaijan regarding the purchase of Iron Dome so far, analyst Alexander Tsinker told Armenian News - NEWS.am, commenting on the reports that Azerbaijan had already purchased Iron Dome.

 “I want to note Israel's leaders have repeatedly stated that the relations with other states, including Azerbaijan, are not directed against any third country, as these relations are based on mutual interest of countries. At the same time, Israel being one of the leading developer and exporter of military products has recently signed a 5 million deal with Azerbaijan,” Tsinker said.

The expert recalled that in December 2016 media reported about possible supply of Iron Dome quoting Azerbaijani minister.

Iron Dome tactical missile defense system is designed to protect against uncontrolled tactical missiles with a range of four to 70 kilometers. However, it is unique as it is designed for a specific threat in a particular area, and this can restrict the interest of a country dealing with more traditional military adversary. Interestingly, the United States after investing in the development around billion dollars, refused to buy Iron Dome for its own forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.

“I want to point out that no official confirmation of the deal with Azerbaijan have been reported to date. Indeed, the negotiations on Iron Dome supplies are underway with a number of countries, but in reality the system was purchased by only one country of the Far East, the name of which is not mentioned anywhere. Israeli military use Iron Dome model of the fourth generation, leaving the earlier version to the export,”   he added.