How the Israeli Defense Forces overcame Iran’s attack
An Israeli jet being prepared to intercept Iranian UAVs during the 13 April attack. (Image: IDF)
On 13 April, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) demonstrated the effectiveness of its combined air defence system, as the use of simulation tools and close cooperation with other countries helped it achieved a 99% kill rate of 330 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and armed drones launched by Iran.
One Iranian ballistic missile was confirmed to hit Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel’s Negev desert causing minor damage to the base which remained operational.
In recent months, US Central Command and the Israeli Air Force (IAF) have been intensifying efforts to achieve full operational coordination in the case of an attack similar
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
“A dominant force”: empowering Europe’s airborne ISR in a new era
European militaries face a new security landscape, with the proliferation of drones, theatre ballistic missiles and other threats boosting requirements for airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and related systems. For L3Harris, missionised business jets are central to meeting these needs, providing capability and flexibility in a cost-effective package.
-
Japan’s Terra Drone expands Ukrainian ties to break into global defence market
Following its investment into WinnyLab, Terra Drone unveiled a new long-range fixed-wing addition to its interceptor drone portfolio as it seeks to bring combat-proven technology back to Japan and expand into global export markets.
-
April air forces review: Next-gen platform push ties in with fleet modernisation plans
Countries releasing their spending budgets over the past month have placed an emphasis on advancing next-generation crewed programmes as well as upgrades and expansion plans for air combat and aerial refuelling capabilities.
-
What opportunities remain for European airborne early warning requirements?
With a pending NATO AWACS replacement on the horizon, the demand and market opportunities for airborne early warning aircraft remain strong as countries look to bolster their capabilities, with industry eyeing gaps in the market.
-
NHI’s NH90: Europe’s multirole helicopter strives to maintain relevance (updated 2026)
Developed in response to NATO’s needs, NHIndustries’ NH90 remains a cornerstone of European and Middle Eastern fleets – with upgrades planned to extend and improve the capabilities of the versatile and capable platform.