How did Israel build its multi-layered air defense system?

Iran fired more than 180 missiles at Israel in the attack on the night of October 1. The attack set off air raid sirens across the country and sent residents fleeing, but caused only a handful of minor injuries and limited damage, largely because many were intercepted or landed in open areas.

The attack, believed to be the largest ever, included hundreds of short-range, medium-range, and long-range ballistic missiles launched from various locations against civilian and military targets across Israel. However, thanks to the ability to detect and track targets early, along with the speed of reaction, Israeli air defense systems were successful in intercepting most of these missiles, minimizing damage.

But much of Israel’s air defenses over the past year have been carried out by Israel itself. Over decades, Israel has developed a sophisticated system that can detect incoming fire and only deploy if it is headed toward population centers or sensitive military or civilian infrastructure.

Israeli leaders acknowledge that no defense system is perfect and this one is no exception. However, they express confidence that Israel's modern missile defense system is capable of intercepting a significant portion of threats, significantly reducing the risk of loss of life and property.

Israel's missile defense system is a multi-layered system. The outer layer is provided by the Arrow missile system, designed to intercept long-range missiles from thousands of kilometers away. Meanwhile, the David's Sling system forms the middle layer, targeting medium-range missiles. The inner layer includes the Iron Dome system, used to intercept short-range rockets and mortars. Together, these layers of defense form a protective shield that has proven effective in protecting Israel from a variety of airborne threats.

Arrow Missile System: Israel's Long-Range Defense Shield

The Arrow missile system is one of the world's most advanced long-range missile defense systems, developed by Israel. It is designed to intercept threats from medium- and long-range ballistic missiles, including those carrying conventional and nuclear warheads.

The Arrow system works on the principle of intercepting missiles just outside the atmosphere. When a ballistic missile is launched, the system's radar will detect and track the target. Then, an interceptor missile will be launched to destroy the target by direct collision or by explosive warhead.

The Arrow missile system is a prime example of Israel's advanced defense technology development. It not only plays an important role in protecting national security but is also a valuable export product in the international market.

David's Sling Missile System: Israel's Medium-Range Defense Shield

The David's Sling air defense missile system was developed by the Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO) in cooperation with the US company Raytheon. The system launches warheadless Stunner interceptors that can intercept medium- and long-range rockets and missiles at ranges of up to 190 miles.

The David's Sling system consists of a launcher, a fire control radar, a control unit, and an interceptor missile.

David's Sling significantly enhances Israel's air defense strategy and is a central element of its multi-layered defense system, providing additional protection against short- and medium-range threats and complementing the capabilities of the Arrow and Iron Dome systems.

Iron Dome System: Israel's Last Shield

First developed in 2011, the Iron Dome system is designed to intercept artillery shells and short-range rockets. It is considered one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world.

The Iron Dome system consists of multiple batteries with multiple launchers, each capable of carrying up to 20 Tamir interceptors. An Iron Dome battery consists of a radar and control unit, and is located throughout Israel. The Iron Dome system's Tamir interceptors are capable of engaging targets at ranges of up to 43 miles.

The system has intercepted thousands of rockets since it was introduced early last decade, including thousands in the current war against Hamas and Hezbollah. Israel says the Iron Dome system has a success rate of more than 90 percent.

Iron Beam System: New System Using Laser Technology

Israel is developing a new system to intercept potential threats using laser technology. Israel says the system will be a game changer because it will be much cheaper to operate than existing systems. According to Israeli media reports, an interception using the Iron Dome system costs about $50,000, while other systems can cost more than $2 million per missile. By contrast, interceptions using the Iron Beam system cost a few dollars each, but the system is not yet operational.