WASHINGTON — Israel has won an increase in U.S. defense aid for fiscal 2009.

Congress has passed a 2009 defense appropriation bill that significantly increased military aid to Israel. Under the bill, Israel would receive additional aid for missile defense and the military.

Under the legislation, expected to be signed by President George Bush, Israel would receive $2.55 billion in military assistance for fiscal 2009. In addition, Israel would receive $177 million to enhance and deploy a missile defense system. This marked a $58 million increase from the administration's request and $22 million more than fiscal 2008.

The bill called for $104 million for enhancement and deployment of Israel's Arrow missile defense system. Israel would receive $73 million for development of the medium-range rocket and missile defense system David's Sling. This marked about twice that allocated for David's Sling in fiscal 2008.

Congress also allocated $35 million to enhance the Hunter unmanned aerial vehicles, also deployed by the U.S. Army. Israel's Heron UAV project would receive $3 million.

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