ISRAEL’S DEFENCE SYSTEM (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: Israel’s multi-layered air defense system recently thwarted a major attack, as Iran deployed over 300 armed drones and launched long-range missiles toward the country.

Components of Israel’s Defence System

• Arrow System

oThe Arrow system consists of anti-ballistic missiles designed for intercepting long-range missiles.

oArrow-2, developed in collaboration with the US, intercepts ballistic missiles within the atmosphere.

oArrow-3 intercepts missiles outside Earth’s atmosphere and was used against Houthi-launched missiles in Yemen.

• David’s Sling

oAlso known as Stunner, David’s Sling is Israel’s medium-range air defence system.

oIt intercepts cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and aircraft within a range of 300 kilometres.

oEquipped with advanced phased-array radar for improved detection capabilities.

• Iron Dome

oIsrael’s indigenous short-range air defence system.

oIntercept rockets, artillery shells, and mortar bombs with a range of 70 kilometres.

oEffectively counters short-range threats like rockets from Hamas.

• Patriot PAC-2 and PAC-3

oUS-made air defence systems deployed by Israel.

oIntercept a variety of missiles, target aircraft, and drones.

oEmployed since the First Gulf War in 1991 against Scud missiles from Iraq.

• Fighter Jets

oF-16 and F-35 fighter jets are integral to Israel's air defence strategy.

oEquipped with air-to-air missiles, they play a significant role in protecting airspace.

• Iron Beam

oIsrael’s ongoing development of an air defence system utilizing laser technology.

oDesigned to intercept incoming threats but not yet fully operational.