When a ballistic missile is launched, defenders have only minutes to track its trajectory and attempt interception. The target, an enemy warhead, moves at supersonic speeds through the edge of space. In recent history, Iran conducted massive missile attacks on Israel that were partially thwarted by advanced defense systems.
These attacks did not cause significant damage, but officials warn of potential future threats. Detecting and stopping ballistic missiles is a complex task due to their speed and altitude. Satellite detection and radar tracking are crucial for launching interceptors in time.
Iran’s use of multiple missiles in quick succession poses challenges for defense systems that may need time to reload interceptors. Decision-making under pressure is vital to prioritize targets and allocate resources effectively.
Israel’s defense mechanisms include various layers designed specifically for countering ballistic missiles at different stages of flight. While some missiles were intercepted successfully, the potential impact on populated areas remains a concern.
Advanced systems like the Arrow 3 interceptor operate in space where ballistic missiles spend most of their journey. These technologies provide critical defense against incoming threats but require constant vigilance and readiness.
2024-11-02 04:03:16
Source from www.nytimes.com