LOC19:47
16:47 GMT
ANKARA, Nov 21 (KUNA) -- Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul denied Saturday press
reports suggesting that Turkey canceled an agreement with Israel to purchase
Heron reconnaissance pilotless airplanes with USD 200 million after the
discovery of defects in their performance.
Gonul, speaking to reporters, said the agreement was not cancelled but the
Israeli side was given a 50-day period to complete the requirements listed in
the contract which was signed last year. Gonul did not elaborate on the
requirements.
He said Turkey has some remarks regarding technical defects in the Heron
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and delay in delivery.
Gonul said there were no political reasons behind the delivery delay, but
the Israelis were having troubles concerning the requirements of the Turkish
side.
Turkey decided last year to purchase the Heron to use it against Kurdish
rebels.
Israel was supposed to deliver the first airplane early this year but the
Turkish army discovered technical defects during the tests, particularly
altitude and flying time.
The news reports suggested that Turkish defense ministry has sent letters
through special channels to Israel saying that it was considering the
cancelation of the deal if the defects were not repaired before end of this
year. (end)
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