TEL AVIV — Israel has concluded development of a non-lethal weapon
meant to drive hostile civilians away by a noxious odor.
Officials said the Defense Ministry's Research and Development
Directorate has completed development of what they termed the "skunk bomb."
They said the bomb contains a synthetic version of the odor released by
skunks.
The Skunk Bomb was said to release a cloud of odor that remains in
clothing for up to five years. Officials said the bomb was meant to disperse
civilian protesters without firing bullets or tear gas, Middle East Newsline reported.
The officials said the bomb has not been introduced into military service.
They said additional trial tests would take place before the Defense
Ministry and military decide on deployment.
The Defense Ministry has increased the importance of developing
non-lethal weapons during the Israeli-Palestinian war, which has involved
combat in urban areas. Officials said the effort has been slow amid
technical and budget difficulties.
