Do you know that Israel maintains one of the world’s most sophisticated multi-layered air defence networks, which has been designed primarily to counter ballistic missile and aerial threats, including those posed by Iran and its regional proxies. The system integrates long-range, mid-range and short-range interceptors, alongside emerging laser-based technology and U.S.-backed assets, creating a comprehensive defensive umbrella.
Arrow System: Long-Range Interception
The Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 systems form the upper tier of Israel’s missile defence architecture. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries in cooperation with Boeing, these interceptors are specifically designed to counter long-range ballistic missiles.
Arrow-2 engages threats within the atmosphere, while Arrow-3 is capable of exo-atmospheric interception. This high-altitude engagement allows for safer dispersal of potential non-conventional warheads. The system is tailored to neutralise advanced ballistic missile threats before they reach Israeli airspace.
David’s Sling: Mid-Range Shield
David’s Sling addresses medium-range ballistic missiles fired from distances between 100 km and 200 km. Jointly developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and U.S.-based RTX Corporation (formerly Raytheon), the system also intercepts aircraft, drones and cruise missiles.
It fills the operational gap between the Arrow system and the shorter-range Iron Dome, enhancing layered redundancy.
Iron Dome and Iron Beam: Short-Range Protection
The Iron Dome, operational since 2011, is designed to intercept short-range rockets, mortars and drones. Each mobile battery uses radar-guided interceptors to destroy threats in mid-air. The system selectively engages only rockets projected to hit populated areas, optimising cost and efficiency. A naval version was deployed in 2017 to protect maritime assets.
Complementing Iron Dome is Iron Beam, a ground-based high-power laser system declared operational in late 2025. It targets smaller aerial threats such as UAVs and mortars. By using directed energy rather than interceptor missiles, Iron Beam significantly reduces interception costs.
Important Facts
- Arrow-3 performs exo-atmospheric ballistic missile interception.
- David’s Sling bridges the gap between long-range and short-range defence systems.
- Iron Dome selectively intercepts rockets heading towards populated areas.
- THAAD intercepts ballistic missiles in the terminal phase of flight.
U.S. THAAD and Airborne Defence Support
The United States has deployed the THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system to Israel, enhancing high-altitude interception capability. THAAD is designed to destroy short, medium and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase.
Additionally, U.S. naval assets and Israeli fighter aircraft contribute to interception operations, particularly against drones and incoming ballistic threats. Together, these systems form a deeply layered defence network aimed at ensuring national security amid evolving regional tensions.