Iran and Israel engaged in a series of air attacks and retaliatory strikes recently, with some Iranian missiles managing to penetrate Israel's missile defence systems and hit key targets. The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, with Iran launching hundreds of missiles and drones, causing damage in Israel. This has raised questions about how Iran has been able to bypass Israel's advanced air defences.

Israel's air defence systems, including the Iron Dome, have been successful in intercepting most aerial attacks. However, Iranian missiles have found ways to evade these defences, posing a challenge to Israel's security.

Israel's Air Defence Systems

Israel's air defence systems consist of multiple layers, with the Iron Dome being a crucial component. While the Iron Dome is effective in intercepting low-level rockets, Iran has been using hypersonic missiles, cruise missiles, and decoys to outmaneuver these defences.

Iron Dome and Other Systems

The Iron Dome, Barak-8, Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, and David's Sling are part of Israel's air defence arsenal. These systems are designed to intercept rockets and missiles of various ranges. However, Iranian advancements in missile technology have posed a challenge to these systems.

Challenges Faced by Israel

Iran's use of hypersonic missiles, cruise missiles, and decoys has made it difficult for Israel's air defence systems to intercept all incoming threats. Hypersonic missiles, in particular, fly at high speeds, giving the defence systems less time to react. Additionally, cruise missiles can change trajectory, making them harder to intercept.

Overcoming Air Defence Systems

Iran has employed strategies to overwhelm Israel's air defences, such as exhausting interceptor missiles, using hypersonic missiles, and deploying radar suppression technologies. By utilizing these tactics, Iran has been able to breach Israel's defences and launch successful attacks.

Future Implications

The conflict between Iran and Israel remains ongoing, with questions arising about the sustainability of missile reserves and interceptor capabilities. As both sides continue to engage in attritional warfare, the effectiveness of air defence systems will be put to the test.

Source: Al Jazeera