The Israel Defense Forces will begin equipping its tanks with an advanced, active protection system capable of countering the latest anti-tank missiles.

The locally developed system, known by its export name as Trophy, will be installed on Merkava Mark IV tanks, partly in response to the experience of the recent war in Lebanon.

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The new defense system creates a "canopy" that surrounds the tank, identifies the threat of the incoming anti-tank missile, and destroys that missile's warhead before it strikes.

The Rafael Armament Development Authority offered Trophy to the IDF several years ago, but the suggestion was turned down then due to other budgetary priorities.

The cost of installing the system on a single tank is estimated to be $200,000-$300,000, if a significant quantity is acquired.

While initially the system will be installed on tanks, the possibility is being considered of also using the Trophy system on armored personnel carriers (APCs).

The United States is also considering the use of the Trophy on its Stryker fighting vehicles.

During the recent war in Lebanon, Hezbollah's anti-tank missiles damaged dozens of IDF tanks; others were totally destroyed. The more sophisticated anti-tank missiles, such as the French Matis and the Russian Kornet, are capable of penetrating the armor of the Merkava Mark IV, which is considered to be the most heavily armored tank in the world.

There are some final touches left to be made on Trophy before it becomes fully operational.

Major General Benny Gantz, commander of the ground forces, confirmed the acquisition, but the matter still requires the approval of the General Staff.