17.06.2025 08:50
As the Iran-Israel war continues into its fifth day, Iran's missile attacks occurring during the night have not gone unnoticed. According to reports in the Israeli press, Iran primarily conducts its refueling operations during this time frame to reduce the risk of detection and attack. The report also emphasized that preparing long-range missiles powered by liquid fuel takes time.
The Israeli newspaper The Jerusalem Post claimed that Iran's choice of nighttime for missile attacks is not a coincidence. According to the report, the attacks carried out by Tehran in the darkness of night reflect a military doctrine that includes elements of secrecy, surprise, and fear.
However, the goal is not solely to gain superiority in psychological warfare. Iran's waiting for nighttime for attacks is also due to certain technical necessities. Unlike aircraft, missiles are not dependent on atmospheric oxygen as a propellant. The reason for this is that ballistic missiles travel at high altitudes where oxygen is either absent or extremely sparse.
MISSILES OPERATE ON LIQUID FUEL
Therefore, each missile must carry not only fuel but also oxidizing agents. According to The Jerusalem Post, Iran's long-range missiles generally operate on liquid fuel.
IT TAKES TIME TO BE READY FOR LAUNCH
Getting these types of missiles ready for launch is a time-consuming process. The fuel and oxidizing agent must be placed inside the missile with extreme care. This situation leaves the Iranian army vulnerable during the refueling phase against Israel's satellites and reconnaissance aircraft.
To reduce the risk of detection and attack, Iran mostly conducts refueling operations at night. Therefore, nighttime is preferred for attacks as visibility is low and the likelihood of aerial detection is significantly reduced.