Ammon News - AMMONNEWS - Israel has selected two defense majors to develop a solution to Hamas and Hizbullah attack tunnels.

Officials said the Defense Ministry has assigned two defense contractors to develop a comprehensive system that would detect and prevent the infiltration of enemy tunnels into the Jewish state.

The officials identified the contractors as Elbit Systems and the state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

“This is a high-priority project in which a solution is needed as soon as possible,” an official said.

Officials said the Defense Ministry has not determined a budget for the anti-tunnel solution.

They said Elbit and Rafael would cooperate in fast-track development that would include a tunnel detection system as well as the construction of shafts 30 meters deep to block enemy passages underneath Israel.

“Physical infrastructure will be necessary and is feasible, particularly around the Gaza Strip,” the official said.

Officials said Elbit was designated as prime contractor and integrator of what officials dubbed “Iron Spade.” They said Rafael would contribute technology as well as advanced sensors.

So far, the Defense Ministry and military have overseen initial trials of a tunnel detection system, a program launched in 2012. Officials said the trials took place both in the field and laboratory and were meant to determine technology options as well as cost estimates.

Officials said the Defense Ministry envisions the anti-tunnel program to cost up to $750 million. They said the program envisioned proof-of-concept as well as an engineering and design phase over the next year.

“By early 2015, we should know whether we are on the right track,” another official said.

*World Tribune