IDF to deploy Iron Dome in Central Israel

The Iron Dome system aims to provide protection from medium-range rockets used by Hamas and Hezbollah and is part of Israel's multi-layered defense layout which also includes the Arrow 2 and Magic Wand systems.

Related stories:

• 3 Grad rockets explode near Beersheba
  
• IDF suspends Iron Dome deals
  
• IDF warns of budget cuts' debilitating effects
  

Residents of Central Israel will be able to get a closer look at the Iron Dome battery which has been found to be effective in intercepting rockets fired at southern communities. The aim is to calibrate the system in the Tel Aviv Metropolitan Area after previous deployments in Haifa and southern cities. The battery will be stationed in Central Israel for several days subject to permits currently being acquired by the Air Force. 

Iron Dome battery in Ashkelon (Photo: AP)

Military sources stressed that the deployment is part of a pre-scheduled training program. The IDF Spokesperson's Unit said: "The Iron Dome is in the process of being made operational as part of which the battery is being placed in various locations from time to time."

While Gaza and Lebanese terrorist organizations have yet to fire rockets at Central Israel, it is a well known fact that they own rockets able to reach this area.

Hezbollah owns rockets able to hit any point in Israel and it is estimated that Hamas also boasts an ever-growing arsenal of rockets able to target Tel Aviv. In the past, security officials estimated that the city will be the main target in the next major round of conflict.

As early as 2009, then Military Intelligence chief Amos Yadlin revealed that Hamas successfully tested a 60 km range rocket from the Gaza Strip. Yadlin said the rocket was likely manufactured in Iran and that its operator was trained in Syria or Iran. Such a rocket can easily hit Tel Aviv or the Ben Gurion Airport.

• Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter
  

• Receive Ynetnews updates directly to your desktop