Israel has one of the most technologically advanced missile arsenals in the Middle East. Aided by foreign assistance and collaboration over the past six decades, Israel domestically produces numerous cruise and ballistic missiles and has engaged in the export of missile systems to numerous other nations. While the bulk of Israel’s missile forces consist of shorter range, tactical systems, it also possesses a contingent of long-range ballistic missiles, the Jericho series, for strategic deterrence.
Despite not officially acknowledging any nuclear program, it is widely believed that Israel does possess nuclear weapons. Israel is not a signatory of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, nor a member of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). It has, however, stated a unilateral commitment to abide by MTCR’s restrictions on missile exports.
In addition to strike systems, Israel also deploys a sophisticated, layered missile defense shield, developed jointly with the United States. The collaboration between Israel’s missile and the space industries, moreover, has facilitated the domestic production of satellite launch vehicles.
Missiles
Missile Name | Class | Range | Status |
---|---|---|---|
Delilah | LACM | 250 - 300 km | Operational |
EXTRA | Artillery Rocket | 150 km | Operational |
Gabriel | ASCM | 35 - 400 km | Operational |
Harpoon | ASCM | 90 - 240 km | Operational |
Jericho 1 | SRBM | 500 km | Obsolete |
Jericho 2 | MRBM | 1,500 - 3,500 km | Operational |
Jericho 3 | IRBM | 4,800 - 6,500 km | Operational |
LORA | SRBM | 280 km | Operational |
Popeye | ALCM | 75 - 100 km | Operational |