Jericho 3 is a solid-fueled intermediate-range ballistic missile developed and produced by Israel to replace its older Jericho 2 ballistic missiles. It was first tested in 2008, and entered service in 2011.¹

Jericho 3 Development

Reports suggest that the Jericho 3 missile, also designated the YA-4, was first tested in January 2008 from the Palmachim flight center near Tel Aviv, with a subsequent motor test in February 2008.² Another unconfirmed test was also reported in 2011.³ The Jericho 3 has an increased range from its predecessor. The missile’s entry into service in 2011 likely means that the Jericho 2 missiles will be phased out within the next ten years. ⁴

Further tests conducted in July 2013 could have been for the Jericho 3 or possibly the Jericho 3A missile, a follow up missile believed to have a new motor.⁵ Some speculate that Israel again tested the Jericho 3 in December 2019, when Israel announced a missile propulsion test after images of the launch appeared on social media.⁶

Jericho 3 Specifications

The Jericho 3 is an intermediate-range ballistic missile, although it is is unclear whether it has two or three stages. The missile is estimated to be between 15.5-16 m long and have a body diameter of 1.56 m. It has an estimated launch weight of 29,000 kg and payload of 1,000 to 1,300 kg.⁷ The missile is reportedly equipped with a 750 kg nuclear warhead with a yield between 150 and 400 kT.⁸ It is suspected that there are decoys included in the payload and several independently targeted RVs (if equipped with the smaller nuclear yield). It has a range of 4,800 to 6,500 km and uses inertial guidance with a radar guided warhead.⁹

These missiles are reportedly based in Zacharia, located south-west of Tel Aviv and stationed in underground caves.¹⁰