Iron Dome, Arrow, David's Sling: Why Israel's Air Defence Systems Are Making Headlines Amid Conflict With Iran

Israel-Iran Conflict: One thing that is always in the news in military conflicts between Israel and its rival countries is its state-of-the-art multi-layered air defence system. This system has been tested repeatedly due to tense relations with many countries and armed groups. Israel's defence system, especially the 'Iron Dome', once again came into the limelight after Iran fired ballistic missiles on Friday. The Israeli military said that most of the missiles were destroyed in the air, although some missiles left "some impact" on buildings in Tel Aviv.

According to media reports, Iran's attack was in response to Israel's drone and missile attack on Iran on Friday, in which several top Iranian military leaders were killed. Israel's attack was an attempt to stop Iran's nuclear programme. Israeli leaders say that their air defence system is not 100 per cent infallible, but it has played an important role in preventing major losses and countless casualties.

Know what the layers of Israel's air defence system are!

Iron Dome

The Iron Dome, which targets short-range rockets, has been an integral part of Israel's defence since the beginning of 2010. Operated with US financial assistance, this system has destroyed thousands of rockets fired by Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah. Israel claims that its success rate is more than 90 per cent.

Arrow

The Arrow system, developed jointly with the US, is designed to intercept long-range ballistic missiles, especially those fired by Iran. It operates outside the atmosphere and has also targeted missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the current conflict.

David's Sling

David's Sling, also known as Stunner or Skyceptor, is designed to destroy medium-range missiles, such as those possessed by Hezbollah. It is jointly developed by Israel's Rafael Advanced Defence Systems and the US's Raytheon. It has been active multiple times in the current war.

Iron Beam

Currently in development, Iron Beam destroys short-range threats using laser technology. Israel considers it a game-changer because of its low cost of just a few dollars per interception, compared to an Iron Dome missile costing $50,000 and an Arrow or David's Sling costing up to $2 million. However, the system has not yet become operational.