Leaked American intelligence documents have revealed the missile Israel planned to use in an attack on Iran. It is the medium-range ballistic missile known as Jericho-2, with plans set for October 16, 2024. However, this missile is not equipped with nuclear warheads.
Israel would have launched the Jericho-2 against Iran with conventional armaments. Israel possesses three variants of Jericho missiles, each with ranges of 500, 1500, and 4800 km. These variants differ in size, range, and speed, and all strike at hypersonic speeds, making them difficult for Iran's air defense to intercept.
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The development of the Jericho-2 began when the U.S. refused to sell Israel the Pershing-2 missile. Operational since 1989, Jericho-2 is part of Israel's nuclear arsenal and is expected to be decommissioned by 2026. In battle, Israel might deploy this missile arsenal against Iran and other adversaries.
Source: aajtak
Jericho-3: Israel's Most Powerful Missile
The Jericho-3 is an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads, deployed in Israel's defense since 2011. Weighing 30,000 kilograms, it is 15.5 meters long and can carry a payload of 1,300 kilograms over a range of 11,500 kilometers.
As for the Jericho-2 MRBM, it weighs 26,000 kilograms and measures 14 meters in length, capable of delivering a 1000-kilogram warhead with a range of 1500 to 2000 kilometers. Both missiles can carry conventional (non-nuclear) and nuclear warheads.
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Source: aajtak
When Did the US Discover Israel's Nuclear Program?
In 1960, Israel was secretly advancing its nuclear program. This information was provided to the American government by a U.S. corporate official. The disclosure came from years of covert operations. Israel adopts a policy of nuclear ambiguity, neither confirming nor denying its nuclear capabilities. Yet, it is recognized among nations equipped with nuclear weapons.
What's the Key Difference Between the Two Nations' Missiles?
Israel's Jericho-3 has a superior range compared to Iran's longest-range Khorramshahr missile. In terms of accuracy, Iran's missiles are more precise due to their advanced guidance systems. Israel maintains multiple layers of air defense systems, while Iran lacks such extensive protection, making missile warfare more daunting for Iran.
