Israel improves Arrow 2 missile defense system after news of Iran drills
A picture obtained from Iran’s ISNA news agency on July 3, 2012, shows an Iranian long-range Shahab-1 missile launched during military exercises at an undisclosed location in Iran’s Kavir Desert. Content, date and location, however, could not be independently verified.
Israel has boosted its Arrow 2 missile interceptor system, improving its ability to intercept medium-range missiles, AFP reported, citing media reports.
Both Iran and Syria have medium-range missiles in their arsenals, AFP noted. Reports noted that the new "Block 4" system, destined for the the arsenal of the Israeli air force, will be installed in missile batteries in the coming weeks.
Israel's announcement about the new system came shortly after Iran revealed a new short-range missile of its own over the weekend, according to Reuters. Iran also recently test-fired two long-range missiles, UPI reported. Syria, currently roiling with conflict, publicly acknowledged its chemical arsenal last month.
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"The new Israeli developments…should be viewed as part of the complex campaign currently conducted between Israel, Iran and Hezbollah," analyst Amos Harel wrote in Haaretz, according to UPI.
"Just as Syria and Iran are flexing are flexing their muscles, demonstrating missile and rocket launching capabilities in frequent training exercises, Israel has decided to publicly announce the fact that is has significantly upgraded its defense systems."
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