The Iron Dome: Unveiling its Incredible Defense System through a Mesmerizing Visual Journey
The Iron Dome, Israel's lifesaving defense system, shields its citizens from the relentless barrage of rockets launched by Hamas Discover how this remarkable technology safeguards lives amidst ongoing attacks
During the recent rocket attacks on Israel, the country has once again turned to the Iron Dome system to safeguard its population.
According to analysts, this missile defense system is a crucial asset in Israel's weaponry, proven to have saved numerous civilian lives in past conflicts over the last ten years. It has demonstrated a remarkable effectiveness. In fact, the Israel Defense Forces reported a success rate of 95.6% when combating a rocket barrage launched by Islamic Jihad in May.
Development of the Iron Dome commenced in 2007, followed by successful test runs in 2008 and 2009. The initial deployment of Iron Dome batteries took place in 2011, and the system has since undergone multiple upgrades.
The primary purpose of the Iron Dome is to intercept and neutralize incoming projectiles. Utilizing an integrated radar system, it detects rockets and employs a command-and-control mechanism to swiftly assess whether an incoming projectile poses a danger or is likely to impact an uninhabited area. When identified as a threat, the system promptly launches surface-to-air missiles to intercept and destroy the rocket in mid-air.
A direct interception can be perceived as a loud noise and sometimes even felt on the ground.
According to Raytheon and the Center for Strategic and International Studies, there are 10 Iron Dome batteries distributed throughout Israel. Each battery consists of three to four launchers. The system is easily transportable and can be set up in a matter of hours. The missile interceptors themselves are highly maneuverable, measuring approximately 3 meters in length (nearly 10 feet) with a diameter of about 6 inches (15 cm). At launch, they weigh 90 kilograms (198 pounds) according to the security analysis group IHS Janes in 2012.
The warhead purportedly contains 11 kilograms of high explosives, as per IHS Janes. Its effective range spans from 4 km to 70 km (2.5 miles to 43 miles).
It is noteworthy that the Iron Dome differs from air defense systems intended to intercept ballistic missiles as it focuses on unguided rockets that typically soar at low altitudes. Such projectiles are frequently launched by militant groups in Gaza.
Operating Iron Dome during periods of war can result in a rapid increase in costs. With each missile carrying a price tag of approximately $40,000, the expenditure accumulates when intercepting a substantial number of incoming rockets.
The Iron Dome program, along with its associated research, has received a significant investment from the US government, totaling over $1.5 billion. According to a US official interviewed by CNN, Israel is expected to seek supplementary interceptors and other military aid from Washington following the attack on Saturday.
