Israel readies itself for hypersonic missile threat from Houthis
Rafael’s Sky Sonic has been suggested as an system capable of intercepting hypersonic missiles. (Image: Rafael)
Reports that the Houthis have access to superfast missiles from Iran has set Israel on a path towards preparing to defend itself with two domestically manufactured air defence systems.
Israel has been accelerating its preparations for building a system that would attempt to protect the country from hypersonic missiles. The project represented an effective upgrade of the country’s multi-tiered missile defence system and will focus on the development of new sensors and interceptors.
Israel has been attempting to validate a report published last week by Russian news agency RIA which quoted an unnamed Houthi official who claimed that the Iranian proxy in Yemen had tested a hypersonic missile “with high lethality” which it has been planning to add it to its arsenal.
“The group’s missile forces have successfully tested
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 Land Warfare
-
![NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise]()
NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise
The Crystal Arrow Exercise is being used by NATO as a way to put new equipment such as uncrewed ground and aerial vehicles into the hands of alliance users, particularly Latvian and Baltic forces.
-
![UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers]()
UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers
The deal will provide the British Army with five times the number of guns it currently operates as an interim measure, but it still leaves the force with comparatively fewer weapons than partner forces.
-
![CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity]()
CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity
Built using proven parts across three countries, the CFL-120 uses a Turkish chassis, an Italian turret and Czech integration to reflect a modular approach to tank design.
-
![Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid]()
Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid
At an industry press day this week, Shephard's Christopher Foss looked more closely at Team LionStrike's line-up.
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
-
![SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display]()
SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display
The array of platforms on display at SAHA 2026 showcased the diversity of equipment now provided by the Turkish defence industry.
