How Israel’s multi-layered air defense system responds to Iranian drone and missile attacks

incoming attack More than 300 Iranian drones and ballistic missiles It’s the latest challenge for Israel’s air defenses, which have been working overtime to deal with incoming rocket, drone and missile attacks during a six-month war against Hamas.

Israeli defense systems, aided by the United States and Britain, are credited with avoiding serious damage or casualties.

The following is a detailed introduction to Israel’s multi-layered air defense system:

arrow: The system was developed with the United States and is designed to intercept long-range missiles, including the type of ballistic missiles Iran said it launched on Saturday. The Arrow operates outside the atmosphere and is used in the current war to intercept long-range missiles launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen.

David’s sling: The David’s Sling, also developed with the United States, is designed to intercept medium-range missiles such as those owned by Lebanon’s Hezbollah.

patriot: The U.S.-made system is the oldest member of Israel’s missile defense system and was used to intercept Scud missiles fired by then-Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein during the first Gulf War in 1991. Patriots are now being used to shoot down aircraft, including drones.

Iron Dome: The system was developed by Israel with U.S. support and is specifically designed to shoot down short-range rockets. It has intercepted thousands of rockets since it was launched at the beginning of the last century, including thousands during the current war against Hamas and Hezbollah. Israel claims its success rate is over 90%.

Iron beam: Israel is developing a new system that uses laser technology to intercept incoming threats. Israel says the system will be a game-changer because it will be significantly cheaper to run than existing systems. However, it is not yet operational.