Arrow 3 trials successful, may move operational timetable ahead
Seven months after testing of improved system for interception of ballistic missiles, program's announcement as operation may move ahead. Former program head says 'system demonstrated high reliability'
Arrow 3 is the Israeli solution to intercepting long-range missiles that exit the atmosphere. The improved missile will be able to stand a future scenario of Iranian launch of a ballistic missile with a nuclear warhead.
Related stories:
- All set with Iron Dome, IDF awaits Magic Wand
- Israel tests rocket propulsion system
- 'Israel to hold Arrow 3 missile test soon'
Inbal Kreiss, who until recently headed the Arrow 3 program, said that "the goal is to reach a fully guaranteed interception, after the system demonstrated high reliability."
In an event held in Tel Aviv University, Kreiss added that "the system has proven saving in time and missiles, and the security establishment is examining answering all threat scenarios with (this system). The missile's ability to divert course while reaching the targeted missile was proven beyond all doubt, as the accuracy of interception high above the State of Israel was improved."
At the end of the event, Kreiss told Ynet that "we try to move the schedule ahead. The experiment's success lowers the risks involved and helps move forward." The project's future stages, which are to take place in the next year and a half, until the system is declared operational, are an additional launch to space, as well as an experimental interception of a missile that simulates a long-range enemy missile that could reach the distance of about 2,000 kilometers (1242 miles).
The Arrow 3 missile is not intended for intercepting Syrian Scud missiles. In order to deal with that threat, Arrow 2 batteries were deployed in central and northern Israel. The Arrow 3 system is intended for long-range missiles only.
If Arrow 3 misses the hit, an Arrow 2 intercepting missile will be launched towards the enemy missile. As backing for the system and destroying of residual air missile, there will be a use of the aerial defense system Magic Wand, which is in advanced stages of development.
- Receive Ynetnews updates
directly to your desktop
