How does Israel's Iron Dome air defence system work?

Israeli targets struck by Iranian missiles as its government fast-tracks new Iron Beam laser technology

Soldiers stand near an Israeli Air Force Iron dome defense system on November 23, 2023 in Central Israel
Just one Iron Dome interceptor Tamir missile is estimated to cost around $50,000
(Image credit: Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images)

Israel's famed Iron Dome air defence system has been described as "the envy of other militaries" but the technology is facing its greatest challenge yet, as Iran continues to launch mass missile attacks in response to Israel's targeting of its nuclear and military facilities.

Tehran is believed to have fired more than 200 ballistic missiles since Friday and, unlike previous salvoes, "many have penetrated Israel's renowned air defences," forcing the Israeli military to warn that the system was "not hermetic", said The Telegraph.

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