Missile Iron Dome

The system originated from a requirement to counter short-range rocket fire from Lebanon and Gaza identified during the 1990s and early 2000s. Development began in 2005, and the platform was selected as the official defense solution in 2007. It moved from design to combat readiness in less than four years. Initial development was funded by Israel, with subsequent production and replenishment supported by the United States.

The platform is a mobile, all-weather counter rocket, artillery, and mortar (C-RAM) and short-range air defense system. It consists of three primary components: an active electronically scanned array detection and tracking radar, a battle management and weapon control unit, and a missile firing unit. The system utilizes the Tamir interceptor, which features electro-optic sensors and steering fins for high maneuverability. Detonation is achieved via a proximity fuze. The radar tracks incoming trajectories, and the control unit calculates the predicted impact point, initiating an interception only if the projectile threatens a designated area. Launchers are independently deployed and operated remotely via secure wireless connection. A naval variant, designated C-Dome, employs a 10-round canister for vertical launches to provide 360-degree coverage using the ship’s own surveillance radar. The system also functions in a counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) role, utilizing proximity-operated warheads or kinetic hits to destroy armed or reconnaissance drones.

The system is widely deployed in Israel and forms the backbone of the national short-range air defense network. The United States has acquired batteries for base protection and testing, and export agreements or production deals have been reached with Azerbaijan, Romania, and Cyprus. Singapore is also reported to operate the system. Combat use began in April 2011 with the interception of a Grad rocket. It has been used in multiple engagements, including the Gaza–Israel conflicts of 2012 and 2021, Operation Pillar of Defense, Operation Protective Edge, and the 2024 Iran–Israel conflict. During Operation Protective Edge in 2014, the system recorded 735 successful interceptions with a reported success rate of 90 percent. In the 2021 Israel–Palestine crisis, it intercepted approximately 90 percent of rockets directed at populated areas. The naval version recorded its first operational interception in April 2024 near Eilat. Operational limitations include vulnerability to saturation strikes and reduced effectiveness against ballistic missiles, where a 20-30 percent interception rate was reported during 2025 engagements. In 2021, the system was temporarily deployed to Guam for experimental testing.