The development of the Israeli national missile defense concept

Abstract

Over the last three decades, the Israeli missile defense concept has evolved significantly along with the emerging threats. As a result of long-term strategy, implemented in the 1990s, contemporary missile defense of Israel has been developed into a complex, multi-tier system aimed to match the country’s unique security needs. The purpose of this study is to determine the main directions of the development of the Israeli missile defense concept that have led to its current form. The study identifies key elements of the multi-layered missile defense architecture as well as their role in overall defense strategy of Israel. With the use of theoretical research methods, the period of 1991-2020 was examined in order to trace the development of new missile defense systems and the evolution of Israeli posture on the subject in relation to changing international situation. The author concludes that comprehensive anti-missile shield, consisting of Arrow-3, Arrow-2, David’s Sling and Iron Dome systems, provides Israel with solid defense against short, medium and long range missile threats and presents potential to be developed into one of the most advanced missile defense systems in the world.