New Delhi (NVI): Israel, with the help of the US, has carried out a successful test of Arrow-2 missile defence system, which is part of a shield created to protect the country from attacks.
During the test, an Arrow-2 missile intercepted a Sparrow missile that simulated a long-range surface-to-surface missile similar to Iran’s Shahab 3 medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) with an explosive warhead, according to the Israeli Defence Ministry. The Arrow-2 missile is capable of neutralising even a missile with nuclear warhead.
“The target simulated what our main enemy would fire,” said Moshe Patel, head of Israel Missile Defence Organization (IMDO), clearly referring to Iran.
The Arrow–2 is part of Israel’s multi-layered defence system to provide the country with a protective umbrella that can shield it from threats posed by Iran’s long-range missiles along with short and mid-range missiles used by terror groups of Hezbollah and in Gaza.
Giving details of the test, officials told the Israeli media that the radar locked the target (a simulated incoming missile), which had been launched from the West, and followed it the entire time before it being intercepted and completely destroyed, as planned.
Hailing the test, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “We have once again proven that the State of Israel has the strongest and most advanced defence and attack capabilities in the world… Our enemies and those who seek our evil know that the State of Israel is prepared against any threat.”
He expressed gratitude to the US for helping in the endeavour.
Defence Minister Benny Gantz said Israel will always be one step ahead of its enemies and ensure protection from any threat.
The Arrow-2 is a joint programme of Israel and the US.
“The joint Israeli-American test reflects the partnership and friendship between the two countries, as well as the deep commitment of the United States to the safety of the citizens of Israel,” the Defence Ministry said.
“We will continue to work together to strengthen the capabilities of the defence establishment in the air, land and sea, as well as in cyberspace,” it added.
