In this article we cover Iran ballistic missiles types. Yesterday, October 1, 2024 Iran launched 180 ballistic missiles towards Israel. These missiles were intercepted by anti-missile defenses by Jordan, US and Israel.
Iran attacked Israel in response the Israel’s killing of Hezbollah leader.
According to Missile Threat Project report, Iran ballistic missile types are many. They have Shahab-3 which has been in use since 2003. It’s accuracy is about 300 meters close to target.
The second Iran ballistic missile type is Fattah-1 which is an hypersonic missile and travels at Mach 5 which means five times the speed of sound. That is estimated to be at 6,100 km/h. These missiles are extremely difficult to intercept because of their supersonic speeds.
How is Israel prepared to intercept the missiles?
Israel is well prepared to intercept the missiles. They have four main systems for dealing with missiles. First is the popular and effective Iron Dome System which is used to combat the incoming rockets and artillery weapons.
You should be aware that the Iron Dome System is the bottom layer. There are other layers operating in the Earth’s atmosphere and some work in space.
David’s Sling
David’s Sling is the second layer that intercepts ballistic missiles in Israel. It protects the country against short and medium range threats. David’s Sling is a joint project between America and Israel. It uses skyceptor and stunner kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors to take out targets.
Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 Systems
This system was developed jointly between US and Israel. The system uses warheads to destroy incoming ballistic missiles. Arrow 3 is known to use hit-to-kill technology and is deployed in space. That is ballistic missiles are intercepted while cruising in space before reentry into the Earth’s atmosphere on their way to set targets.
How did Israel handle the recent ballistic missiles launched from Iran?
Israel military did not work alone. US and Jordan came to their aid in intercepting missiles. Specifically, USA used navy-guided missile destroyers USS Cole as well as USS Bulkeley which were in the eastern Mediterranean sea.
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