Which countries have Iron Dome systems?
Iron Dome
The Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation reports that the Iron Dome is an air defense system that is intended to deter what are deemed “short-range threats.” It is viewed as one of the most sophisticated air defense systems in the world.
Operational since 2011
The technology was first made operational in 2011. It is considered the first layer of defense of the Israeli air defense system. What provoked its development?
Hezbollah's rockets
The majority of Hezbollah’s rockets fell into Israel proper, primarily targeting Israeli military sites and the occupied Golan Heights. The rocket fire overwhelmed Israeli air defense.
Development of air defense system
Following the 2006 incidents with Lebanon, the then-Israeli defense minister, Amir Peretz (pictured), OK-ed the development of a more thorough air defense system with a relatively tiny budget of US$100 million.
Quick turn around
The then-new technology had its first test run in March 2009. The development time of the technology was considered quite short, given its novelty.
Objectives
The second objective of the Iron Dome is to be able to assess the likely impact of any airborne threat. The third objective is to be able to intercept any airborne threat.
Predictive technology
The system uses predictive technology to assess if an airborne weapon will land in Israeli territory. If so, it can also predict where it will land. If the Iron Dome determines that there is no threat to human life or infrastructure, its defenses are not deployed.
Interest
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute reports that a number of nations have shown interest in purchasing the Iron Dome system throughout the years, but some didn’t go through with their plans.
South Korea
After Azerbaijan made its purchase, South Korea began eyeing the Iron Dome for its own affairs. While the nation did not directly purchase the system from Israel, it did dedicate US$2.5 billion to develop its own.
India
India was another nation that expressed interest in purchasing the Iron Dome. The nation grew closer to Israel under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Although many talks were held between the nations, no reports of a finalized purchase have been issued.
Canada
Other countries have purchased portions of the Iron Dome, specifically its radar technology. In 2015, Canada purchased a medium-range radar for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). The technology was implemented in 2017.
Finland
In April 2023, Finland’s Defense Ministry purchased part of the Iron Dome called “David’s Sling.” Delivered by Israeli defense contractor Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the purchase was made for US$335 million.
Hungary
In 2024, Hungary purchased part of the Iron Dome on behalf of the Hungarian Defense Forces Air Operation Command and Control Center. Romania’s Defense Ministry has also acquired the technology.
