ROME - Israel is considering procuring a new training helicopter, with Leonardo, Airbus and Bell Helicopters competing to win this contract. Reportedly, Israel and Italy are in talks concerning reciprocal procurement deals. Should Israel purchase the Leonardo helicopter, Italy could place a subsequent order for the SPIKE missile. Rafael Defense Systems Ltd manufactures the SPIKE missile family.
The helicopter deal could be worth $350 million. There are no details concerning any of the possible reciprocal orders.