A video posted on social media on 31/3 depicts at least two Israeli interceptors approaching a target believed to be an Iranian ballistic missile. However, the object repeatedly changed its trajectory, causing both interceptors to miss.
The exact time and location of the recording are unknown, as is whether Israeli air defense ultimately intercepted the missile. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have not yet commented on the information.
An object suspected to be an Iranian missile maneuvers to evade Israeli air defense interceptors in a video released on 31/3. Video: X/Megatron_ron
"This is not the first time there has been evidence of Iran using advanced missiles with the ability to evade enemy air defense interceptors to attack Israel. Iran has repeatedly used missiles equipped with maneuverable reentry vehicle (MaRV) warheads to penetrate enemy air defense networks," noted Thomas Newdick, editor for the US military publication War Zone.
MaRVs possess capabilities similar to hypersonic glide vehicles, but with less maneuverability, primarily maintaining a fixed trajectory during their mid-course phase. They can suddenly increase altitude when approaching a target, creating an undulating flight path that extends range, adjusts direction, and poses challenges for enemy missile shields. For many years, Iran has been developing MaRVs to counter the multi-layered air defense network deployed by Israel.
A Patriot system fires to intercept an Iranian ballistic missile in a video released on 11/3. Video: X/Clash Report
Additionally, experts point out that even the most sophisticated missile defense systems do not always achieve 100% effectiveness. "Some Iranian missiles are maneuverable, which complicates interception efforts. Attempts to calculate a target's trajectory can sometimes be imprecise. Even slight atmospheric turbulence is enough to hinder an interception attempt," stated Yehoshua Kalisky, an expert at Israel's Institute for National Security Studies.
Experts previously warned that Iran's initial retaliatory attacks might only employ older ballistic missiles to stretch enemy air defenses, forcing the United States, Israel, and their allies to expend a large number of expensive interceptors. More advanced weapons could then be deployed once gaps appear in the defense networks of the US and its allies.
Nguyen Tien (According to War Zone, AFP, AP)
