On Tuesday evening, Israel underwent a large -scale attack by Iran, who launched about 180 ballistic missiles aside the enemy. This event was a serious test for the country’s multi -level system of air defense, which includes several key components.
The most famous element of Israeli air defense is the Iron Dome system. However, contrary to widespread opinion, it is primarily intended for intercepting low -range missiles, such as those that Hamas or Hezbollah are usually launched. In the case of an Iranian attack, where ballistic missiles were used, probably are used Other, more advanced systems.
One of these systems – “Prying David” is the joint development of the United States and Israel. She is able to intercept medium and large -range weapons, as well as ballistic and cruise missiles. “Prashche of David” fills an important gap in the defense of Israel, providing protection against threats that are beyond the capabilities of the “iron dome”, but have not yet reached the heights at which Arrow systems work.
To counter a large -range ballistic missiles, which in flight go beyond the atmosphere of the Earth, Israel has ARROW 2 and ArROW 3 interceptors operating at maximum altitude. Their use minimizes the risk of falling fragments on settlements.
On Tuesday, all these systems probably worked in the complex. According to the Israeli military, most missiles were intercepted, although some still reached the goal in the central and southern parts of the country.
It is important to note that Israel did not act alone when repelling the attack. According to Pentagon, two US Navy destroyers, deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean, released a dozen interceptors. British forces also took part in the operation, although, according to BBC, their aircraft did not hit a single Iranian rocket.
As mentioned above, despite the effectiveness of air defense systems, the damage was nevertheless caused. Israel confirmed that several airbas are shocked, although the critical infrastructure and combat effectiveness of the Air Force were not affected. Personnel widespread on social networks show missiles that amaze the Nevatim air base in the Negev desert and the territory near the headquarters of the intelligence service Mossad near Tel Aviv.
The Iranian side claims that in the attack she used not only ordinary ballistic shells, but also the Fattah hypersonic missiles, which, according to their statements, “cannot be intercepted.” However, their effectiveness and the ability of Israeli air defense systems to counteract such a threat remain the subject of discussions.