The U.S. Marines have successfully concluded their first live-fire training exercise utilizing an air defence system that integrates the Iron Dome interceptor. This advanced system combines an American radar and command-and-control centre with the Iron Dome (Tamir) interceptor and a mobile launcher developed by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems in collaboration with Raytheon as the prime contractor.
During the training, Marines operated the system fully, achieving successful interceptions of designated targets. The exercise also tested the continuous launch capability of the Iron Dome interceptors from a mobile launcher specifically developed for Marine use.
This training followed an extensive program that included a series of tests aimed at evaluating a new prototype system for medium-range intercept capability (MRIC). The successful execution of this training demonstrated the Marines’ proficiency in operating the system, showcased the effectiveness of the mobile launcher, and highlighted the Iron Dome interceptor’s performance in realistic and challenging interception scenarios.
The Tamir interceptor is designed to counter a wide range of threats, including cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and various rockets, artillery shells, and mortars. Developed by Rafael, the interceptor was adapted to meet the Marine Corps’ requirements with support from Raytheon.
The successful live-fire exercise represents a significant milestone toward the operational deployment of the first prototype battery for the Marines.
Moshe Patel, Director of the Israel Missile Defence Organization (IMDO), commented, “Iron Dome is a system with extensive operational experience, boasting thousands of successful interceptions for over a decade. Iron Dome continues to save lives even now, during the ‘Swords of Iron’ war. The U.S. Marines’ live-fire exercise further proves the Iron Dome interceptor’s ability and ground infrastructure to quickly and efficiently integrate with any relevant air defence system and intercept various aerial threats in complex scenarios. The Ministry of Defence welcomes any collaboration in air defence with U.S. military branches.”
Shlomo Toaff, Senior VP and Head of Air Defence Systems Division at Rafael, added, “The Iron Dome continues to prove itself as an advanced and unique air defence system, with thousands of successful interceptions in complex operational scenarios. The fruitful cooperation with the U.S. Marine Corps, together with the partnership with Raytheon, demonstrates Rafael’s ability to provide unique and customized solutions that deliver effective and precise defence against various aerial threats. The success of the latest exercise marks an important milestone, and we will continue to work together with the IMoD’s DDR&D to expand air defence capabilities in collaboration with our strategic partners worldwide.”
