Israel is bracing for a potential shortage of interceptor missiles as it strengthens its air defenses against possible coordinated attacks from Iran and its allies. Reports indicate that if Iran and Hezbollah were to strike Israel simultaneously, the country’s air defense capabilities could be overwhelmed.
Dana Stroul, a former senior U.S. defense official, highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, “If Iran responds to an Israel attack and Hezbollah joins in too, Israel’s air defenses will be stretched.” This situation raises alarms about the adequacy of Israel’s air defense systems in the face of multiple threats.
Additionally, Stroul emphasized that the U.S. might struggle to maintain its supply efforts to both Ukraine and Israel, as resources become critically limited. This could impact Israel’s ability to respond effectively to escalating threats.
Increased Production Efforts
In response to the looming missile shortage, Boaz Levy, CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the state-owned manufacturer responsible for the Arrow interceptors, revealed that production efforts are ramping up. “Some of our lines are working 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our goal is to meet all our obligations,” Levy explained. However, he cautioned that the production timeline for interceptor missiles is not immediate.
While the exact size of Israel’s interceptor missile stockpiles is not publicly disclosed, Levy stated, “It is no secret that we need to replenish stocks.” This urgent need for replenishment underscores the critical nature of the situation.
Current Air Defense Performance
Israel’s three-layered air defense system has largely been effective in intercepting missiles and drones launched by Iran and its proxies since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7. The Iron Dome is designed to intercept short-range rockets from Gaza, while David’s Sling targets heavier rockets from Lebanon. The Arrow system is intended to block long-range ballistic missiles from Iran.
In April, Israel successfully neutralized 99% of an Iranian attack involving drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, with support from the U.S. and other allies. However, the effectiveness of this air defense system was challenged on October 1, when around 30 missiles targeted Nevatim Air Base, with one missile detonating near the Mossad headquarters.
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