The ballistic missiles launched by Iran must overcome numerous obstacles to reach Israel. Only those that succeed can wreak havoc upon Israeli soil. So, how long does it take for these missiles to reach Israel, and how many countries and hurdles must they overcome in the process?
On June 13, Israel launched a powerful attack on Iran, targeting its nuclear sites, ballistic missile launchers, and air defense systems. In retaliation, Iran fired hundreds of UAV drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. Many of these were intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome and other air defense systems, preventing them from reaching Israeli soil.
Time Taken for Iranian Ballistic Missiles to Reach Israel
From June 13 to 16, Iran launched 370 ballistic missiles at Israel, including supersonic ones like Fateh-1 and Sejjil. The distance between Iran and Israel is about 1,300 to 1,500 km (800-930 miles). These ballistic missiles, traveling at Mach 5 speeds, take approximately 12 minutes to reach Israel. Supersonic missiles like Fateh-1, moving at speeds of 16,000 to 18,500 kilometers per hour, can reach Israel in just 6 to 7 minutes. Cruise missiles take nearly two hours, and drones may require up to nine hours to cover the distance.
Travel Time Depends on the Missile Type
Ballistic missiles from Iran, traveling at Mach 5, can reach Israel in about 12 minutes. However, the exact time depends on the missile type and launch site. Unlike ballistic missiles, cruise missiles fly at lower altitudes with steady flight paths, helping them evade aerial defenses despite their slower speed, which allows more time for interception. Their maneuverability aids in changing paths, flying around obstacles, and evading missile defenses.
How Missiles Evade Israeli Air Defense
Relying on the Iron Dome system, equipped with radar to detect incoming missiles along with their speed and direction, Israeli air defense is formidable. Iranian missiles must also navigate through air defense systems like David's Sling and Arrow. David's Sling can intercept missiles within a range of 40 km (25 miles) to 300 km (186 miles), whereas the Arrow system intercepts missiles from distances up to 2,400 km (1,491 miles).
Countries Between Iran and Israel
Several countries lie between Iran and Israel, through which Iranian missiles and drones must pass. These nations include Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. Iranian missiles can only reach Israel after traversing these countries' airspaces.
Also read: How does Iran stand against Israel and America's joint strength? Compare missiles and fighter jets.
