Israel’s Defensive Response to Missile Attacks by Iran
Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles on Tuesday, but Israel successfully defended itself using a sophisticated array of missile defense systems.
How did Israel manage to avoid casualties? The credit goes to its multi-layered missile defense system, developed with assistance from the United States.
Military analyst Tim Ripley noted that Israel’s various missile defense systems are part of a unified structure.
According to Ripley: “The key aspect is the integration of all these systems into a cohesive network that recognizes the limitations of any single system.”
Ripley explained the defense strategy against ballistic missiles, which involve the Arrow system intercepting missiles at their highest point, David’s Sling targeting them in the mid-atmosphere, and the Iron Dome system intercepting those that make it through the previous defenses.
He emphasized the importance of AI-driven algorithms that manage the trajectory predictions and interception strategies, especially when facing multiple missiles simultaneously.
He highlighted the contrast between Israel’s advanced defense network and Ukraine’s less robust system, explaining how fewer missiles get past Israel’s defenses due to their comprehensive setup.
The Pentagon mentioned that the U.S. Navy assisted in shooting down some of the missiles targeting Israel, with the U.S. and other allies also involved in integrating their systems into Israel’s.
Israel’s missile defense systems include:
Iron Dome
The well-known Iron Dome system specializes in short-range projectile interception and has a high success rate against rockets from Hamas and Hezbollah.
It has intercepted thousands of rockets with a success rate of over 90%, but its range is limited to around 45 miles.
David’s Sling
Named after the biblical character, David’s Sling is designed for medium-range missile interceptions with interceptors costing at least $1 million each.
It has been effective against Hezbollah rockets, with a range of up to 185 miles
The Arrow
The Arrow system is used to intercept long-range ballistic missiles, like those fired by Iran.
The newest version, Arrow 3, has a range of 1,490 miles and has been successful against missiles from Houthi rebels in Yemen.
These defense systems collectively form a robust shield against missile threats to Israel.
Patriot
The Patriot system, introduced in 1991, was originally designed to intercept Scud missiles during the Gulf War and now serves to defend against various threats, including drones and potential air attacks.
Iron Beam
Israel is actively developing new defense systems like Iron Beam, which utilizes laser beam technology for interception.
The high-energy laser weapon promises a cost-effective and efficient defense against emerging threats.
Rafael, the Israeli company developing Iron Beam, highlights its capabilities in engaging and neutralizing threats with minimal collateral damage.
Lockheed Martin has also collaborated with Rafael to enhance Israel’s defense capabilities using cutting-edge laser technology.
Israel’s continuous innovation in defense technologies ensures that it stays ahead in countering evolving security threats.
