Context:
Israel’s Defence Ministry has begun coordinating joint preparations with the German Federal Ministry of Defence for the initial deployment of Israel’s Arrow-3 missile interception system on German soil in 2025.
Relevance:
GS III: Defence
Arrow-3 Missile Defense System
The Arrow-3 is an advanced exo-atmospheric anti-ballistic missile defense system designed to intercept long-range threats outside the Earth’s atmosphere. It represents the upper echelon of Israel’s multi-layered air defense network, which includes various other systems like the Arrow 2, David’s Sling, and the Iron Dome.
Development and Deployment
- Joint Venture: Arrow-3 was developed collaboratively by Israel Aerospace Industries and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency.
- Operational Since: The system was initially deployed in 2017 and serves as the top layer of Israel’s integrated air defense system.
System Components and Capabilities
- Interceptor and Propulsion: Arrow-3 utilizes a two-stage solid-fueled interceptor capable of engaging short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.
- Speed and Range: The system is hypersonic, capable of traveling at five times the speed of sound, with an operational range of approximately 2,400 km.
- Altitude: It can intercept incoming threats at altitudes up to 100 km, effectively outside of the Earth’s atmosphere.
- Support Systems: The Arrow-3 system includes a sophisticated launcher, radar, battle management, and fire control capabilities.
- Radar Capabilities: It features early warning and fire control radar that supports extended-range acquisition, multi-target acquisition, and tracking.
Operational Mechanism
- Hit-to-Kill Technology: Arrow-3 employs hit-to-kill technology, which ensures that the interceptor destroys the incoming missile by colliding with it directly, rather than using an explosive warhead.
- Launch and Interception Process:
- The missile is initially launched vertically upwards.
- It then maneuvers towards the calculated interception point based on real-time tracking.
- A high-resolution electro-optical sensor is used to acquire and track the target accurately.
- The kill vehicle then executes the final interception, destroying the warhead of the incoming missile through direct impact.
Significance of Arrow-3
Arrow-3 is a critical component of Israel’s defensive strategy against ballistic missile threats. Its ability to engage threats at high altitudes allows it to neutralize potential dangers before they enter the atmosphere, providing a strategic defense advantage. This system is part of a broader effort to safeguard the nation’s airspace against increasingly sophisticated threats, ensuring a robust defense posture that can handle multiple incoming targets simultaneously.
In summary, the Arrow-3 missile defense system enhances Israel’s capability to defend against long-range ballistic missile threats with precision and reliability, significantly contributing to regional stability and security.
-Source: The Hindu
