covertress: A Brief History of the Arrow

Friday, July 17, 2009

A Brief History of the Arrow

An Arrow anti-ballistic missile is launched as part of the on going United States/Israel Arrow System Improvement Program (ASIP). U.S. Navy photo (RELEASED)

The Arrow Anti-Ballistic Missile System is the first missile defense system specifically designed and built to intercept and destroy ballistic missiles on a national level.

On July 29, 2004, Israel and the United States carried out a joint test at the Point Mugu Sea Range in California, in which the Arrow interceptor was launched against a real "Scud-B" missile.

The test was a success, with the interceptor destroying the "Scud" at an altitude of 40 km. This was the twelfth Arrow interceptor test and the seventh test of the complete system, the first interception of a real "Scud".

Following the July 2004 test, the Defense Minister of Israel, Shaul Mofaz, said:

"We are in an age of uncertainty. Countries in the 'third circle' [Iran] are continuing their efforts to acquire non-conventional capabilities along with long-range launch capabilities. The Arrow is the best missile system of its kind in the world, and represents a force multiplier for our future force".

Arrow Missile Defense System - Wikipedia

The 13th test from August 27, 2004 was less than encouraging:

This test was aimed at examining the Arrow's ability to detect a splitting warhead. It detected the true target, but a technical malfunction reportedly prevented it from maneuvering to strike it, leading to a suspension of testing.

Since then, tests of the Arrow have successfully intercepted "a target" at an unspecified but reported record low altitude, a "Black Sparrow" missile at high altitude, and the "Blue Sparrow" (a successor of the "Black Sparrow", capable of simulating a Scud-C/D).

The Arrow has yet to successfully defeat the Iranian Shahab-3 ballistic missile.

Californians, keep your eyes peeled for the fireworks of a final test off the coast any day now.