Israel Turns to Alternative Air Defenses as Missile Threats Intensifies

(MENAFN) Israel is reportedly deploying air defense systems not originally intended for certain types of missile interception as it faces growing pressure on its defensive capabilities, according to reports.

The military has been using US-supplied interception systems alongside lower-tier platforms such as “David’s Sling” to counter incoming threats, even though these systems were not specifically designed for those types of missiles, unlike more advanced systems such as Arrow 3.

This shift comes as Israel’s air defense network is strained by the scale and variety of incoming attacks. Reports indicate that earlier plans to expand interceptor missile production were delayed due to financial disagreements between the defense and finance ministries, despite warnings from security officials about the need to increase output.

As a result, manufacturing capacity was not expanded in time, with increased production only beginning recently after new facilities were established. Additionally, outstanding payments from the government to defense contractors have reportedly grown, reflecting delays in settling accounts for previously supplied equipment.

Although Israeli officials maintain that interception success rates are around 90%, several attacks involving missiles and drones launched by Iran and Hezbollah have still resulted in casualties among civilians.

Authorities also maintain strict controls over information related to the impact of Iranian strikes, including details about where missiles have landed and the extent of the damage.

At the same time, Israeli forces remain engaged across multiple fronts, conducting operations in Iran and Lebanon, while also maintaining deployments in Gaza and the West Bank and carrying out regular incursions into Syria.

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