Israel’s response to Iran’s recent attack revealed the extent of its missile arsenal. However, it is clear that Iran cannot engage in a direct air war with Israel due to Israel’s measured response.
Just over a week after Iran launched more than 300 missiles, cruise missiles, and drones at Israel, the Israeli armed forces responded with a limited air strike. This attack exposed the military vulnerabilities of the Iranian regime. The Israeli forces used medium-range Blue Sparrow missiles for the attack, which are typically used for training purposes to test anti-aircraft systems. These missiles allow Israel to target Iranian air force bases and nuclear facilities deep within the country.
The strike was carried out from rocket launch modules near Iraqi towns, indicating that Israel did not launch the attack from its own territory. The use of F-35 fighter jets enabled Israel to execute the attack swiftly and evade Iranian air defenses. The successful strike hit an anti-aircraft system at the Shekari air base, which is located near the Natanz nuclear facility. This facility had previously been targeted by Israeli sabotage.
Despite Iran’s efforts to modernize its air defense systems, Israel’s precision attack exposed weaknesses in Iranian defense capabilities. While Iran possesses a significant number of air defense systems, the exchange of blows with Israel highlighted the challenges Iran faces in defending against advanced weaponry. The ongoing shadow war between Iran and Israel underscores both sides’ reluctance to engage in a full-scale conflict.