18.06.2025 17:51
The Iron Dome system, which plays a significant role in Israel's air defense, did not demonstrate sufficient effectiveness against ballistic missiles launched by Iran. National security analyst and former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer Travis Hawley pointed out that in the event of a simultaneous attack involving 50 to 100 ballistic missiles, achieving a high success rate would be "quite difficult."
In a report by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, national security analyst and former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer Travis Hawley's assessment of the Iron Dome system, which plays a significant role in Israel's air defense, regarding its effectiveness against ballistic missiles launched by Iran was highlighted.
"ACTING AS A LAST RESORT"
Hawley stated that the Iron Dome system is not responsible for intercepting ballistic missiles sent by Iran, explaining, "The Iron Dome was actually designed to counter short-range rockets and mortars. The system, which is particularly effective against threats like rockets fired by Hamas from Gaza, only activates as a last resort against ballistic missiles."
Hawley noted that Israel's first line of defense against the ballistic missile threat is formed by the Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 systems, and that the Iron Dome can be activated as a backup if these systems fail.
"IRON DOME PROVED INSUFFICIENT"
Hawley pointed out that the recent missile attacks from Iran demonstrated the failure of the Iron Dome, as it could be the case with all integrated air defense systems. He indicated that in the event of simultaneous attacks from 50 to 100 ballistic missiles, achieving a high success rate or 100% effectiveness is "quite difficult."