Latest version of Iron Dome missile able to intercept mortar shells

The latest version of the Israeli-made Iron Dome, a short-range anti-rocket, artillery systems especially designed to destroy incoming aerial threats as rockets and missiles is able to intercept mortar shells that are in the air for just 15 seconds.

Iron Dome missile is fired to counter aerial threats near the Israeli border. (Picture source Rafael)

The Iron Dome entered operational service with the Israeli Defence Forces in early 2011, and since then has been the most used missile defense system in the world, boasting nearly a 90% success rate intercepting over 1500 incoming targets heading towards population centers.

Since becoming operational by the Israeli Air Force in April 2011, Iron Dome has successfully intercepted over 500 rockets that have been fired from the Gaza Strip at Southern and Central Israel. Iron Dome system has achieved a very high rate of successful interceptions. In doing so, the system saved lives and prevented serious damages to property.

The Iron Dome continue to be modernized according to the new threats and is now also able to intercept drones and mortar rounds. According to the Israel Defense Forces, during these last days Iron Dome batteries have successfully destroyed at least 25 incoming projectiles from the Gaza Strip, most of them were mortar projectiles.

The Iron Dome is the only combat proven dual mission system in the world that provides an effective defense solution for countering rockets, artillery & mortars (C-RAM) as well as aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, PGMs.

The Iron Dome air defense system is effective to counter C-RAM (Counter Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar) threats with ranges of up to 70 km and for VSHORAD (Very Short Range Air Defense System) protection (up to 10 km). The system operates during Day/night  in all weather conditions, including low clouds, rain, dust storms or fog. Iron Dome can handle multiple threats simultaneously and efficiently. The system enables effective and selective handling of critical threats aimed at the defended zone to reduce unnecessary launches.

The Iron Dome can handle multiple threats simultaneously and efficiently. The system enables effective and selective handling of critical threats aimed at the defended zone to reduce unnecessary launches. The system uses a unique interceptor with a special warhead that detonates any target in the air within seconds.