Israel’s Air Force Commander Arrives in U.S.; Reviews Security Problems

The capabilities of the Israel Air Force to fight a modern war are under constant review to assure that the quality of its equipment is adequate for any challenge. Brig. Gen. Dan Tolkowsky, commander of the air arm, declared today.

Speaking at a press conference prior to the start of a four-week tour for the United Jewish Appeal, Gen. Tolkowsky said that Russia had "poured tremendous quantities of warplanes into Syria and Egypt and the Arab states have made a considerable effort in this field since the Sinai campaign."

Asked about Israel’s general ability to withstand an Arab onslaught, Gen. Tolkowsky said: "We have always felt we have the strength to stand up to any sensible challenge, but there is always a limit to it. We sincerely hope that this rearmament race will not degenerate into a wholesale dumping of arms into the Middle East with Russia arming the Syrians and Egypt and the West arming Iraq and Jordan, up to a state of complete chaos. "

"At present, Israel’s borders are reasonably quiet but we are well aware of the ceaseless military activity going on in the Arab countries, in particular the large quantities of modern military aircraft which continue to pour into these countries, " the Israel military leader continued. He said Israel faced the compelling necessity of keeping our armed forces intact, well equipped and continually on the alert. "We would be taking suicidal risks if we neglected to do so, " he declared.

Discussing Israel’s major tasks, the Air Force commander said: "We have to maintain the flow of immigrants in search of a true home and consolidate industry and agriculture with particular emphasis on exports. We must also maintain a high state of defensive military preparedness, coupled with a constant readiness for peace and cooperation with our as yet hostile neighbors."