Lockheed Martin Executive In Israel Touts F-35's 'Capacities' Against Russian-Made Missiles

Lockheed Martin Corporation LMT's senior sales executive in charge of international business said the F-35 fighter jet can defend itself versus Russian-made missiles.

At a news conference in Israel, the executive, Steve Over, said the aircraft "has the capacity" to deal with advanced surface and airborne threats, according to a report in the Jerusalem Post.

Over's meeting with journalists came a day after Russia announced that it was lifting a ban on the sale of the air defense system to Iran.

Israel expects to begin taking deliver next year of 20 of the aircraft for $2.75 billion under a 2010 agreement, which included an option on 75 additional units.

Israel said at the time the aircraft would effectively eliminate the threat from Russian-made S-300 air defense systems.

Israeli companies have served as subcontractors since 2003 in developing the aircraft, which Israel expects will replace its fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft.

Major partners with Lockheed include Northrop Grumman Corp. NOC, United Technologies Corp. UTX and BAE Systems PLC BAESY.