Israel to augment air defense system against Iranian drone attacks

Jerusalem: Israeli army has taken steps to strengthen its air defence system, considering the rising threat from Iranian drones. An Israeli news agency published that such an air defence system will be ready in two years. Four days ago, a drone attacked US military base in Syria. So, Iran or Iran-backed have been accused of carrying out this attack. Thus, Israel has indicated developing an air defence system to counter enemy drones.

Also, the Israeli army owns rockets and advanced air defence systems to counter missiles and fighter jet attacks. Even the United States is eager to purchase the Iron Dome air defence system, which Israel uses to counter short-range ballistic missiles (SRBM). Besides, the Israeli army has deployed advanced defence systems such as David’s Sling, Arrow, Patriot at the Syria and Lebanon border. But, over the last few years, the threat of Iran’s drone attack against Israel has increased, claim Israeli press. The media cited the 2011 incident of a drone attack on Aramco oil facility in Saudi. The press has also claimed that the attack on the Aramco facility has increased the threat of drone attacks. A few months ago, a cargo ship sailing through the Persian Gulf was attacked by a drone. Furthermore, three months ago, a drone from Syria had attempted to fly into Israel through the border of Jordan, but it failed.

Last month, Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz released photographs and information about Iran’s huge drone base. Moreover, a few days ago, Iran had held air exercises. This exercise included bomber planes alongside drones. Hezbollah from Lebanon, Iran-backed groups in Iran & Syria, Houthi Rebels in Yemen are prepared with Iranian drones.

Furthermore, analysts from Saudi and Middle East warned that the drone attacks by Houthi Rebels threaten the security of Saudi. In the last few days, Houthi Rebels attacked Saudi airport and even the passenger airports. Whereas the US officials have alleged Iran responsible for attacking the US army base in Al-Tanf, Syria.

Hence, Iran can challenge Israel’s security by openly carrying out drone attacks or via Iran-backed militant outfits based in Syria. Against this background, the Israeli army is developing an independent air defence system to counter drone attacks. An Israeli tabloid also claimed that this air defence system would be functional in the next two years.