Israel Phases Out Outdated Patriot Missile Systems
The Israeli Air Force is in the process of decommissioning its Patriot surface-to-air missile systems, substituting them with more sophisticated technology, as reported by The Times of Israel.
The retirement initiative commenced in February and is projected to finish within a two-month timespan. The retired Patriot batteries will be replaced by David’s Sling and the Iron Dome, which are already integrated components of Israel’s multi-layered aerial defense infrastructure.
The American-developed Patriot system encountered minimal action within Israel. While it effectively intercepted Iraqi Scuds during the 1991 Gulf War, its overall effectiveness over the subsequent two decades was limited.
Israel’s aerial defense framework employs a multi-layered strategy:
- Iron Dome: This short-range system has demonstrated remarkable success since 2011, neutralizing thousands of rockets, mortars, and drones launched from Gaza.
- David’s Sling: This mid-range system offers protection against medium-range projectiles.
- Arrow Systems: These long-range systems are engineered to combat significant ballistic missiles.
The future of the retired Patriot batteries is uncertain; however, Ukraine has indicated interest in acquiring them to enhance its defensive capabilities against Russian missile threats.
