The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) plans to buy hundreds of Storm (Sufa) 3 jeeps built by Nazareth-based Automotive Industries Ltd.

The 3.5t jeeps will be built to meet IDF requirements, with improved storage capacity and a strong turbo-diesel engine.

The jeeps will be built from scratch so that protective layers can be added to them.

The estimated ILS1.5m ($400,000) deal includes buying of over 500 kits in the US that will be assembled and armoured in Israel, according to the Globes.

The IDF is also considering the option of buying heavier armoured vehicles to replace the Abir vehicles.