Israel says test of long-range missile defense system was successful

Israel along with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) on Tuesday successfully tested a system meant to “intercept ballistic missiles outside the earth’s atmosphere,” the countries said in a joint statement.  

The Arrow Weapon System (AWS), jointly developed by the Israel Missile Defense Organization and the MDA, had a successful flight at a test site in central Israel, according to the release. 

AWS radars detected a target, fired two Arrow 3 interceptors at it, “and successfully completed the mission.” 

“With every step forward, with every development, we equip the State of Israel with the capabilities to defend itself against developing threats. Our systems provide Israel with the freedom to maneuver strategically,” Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz said in a statement. 

The system is meant to add another layer to Israel’s missile defenses, bolstered in recent years to protect the country from potential future conflict with Iran or the Hamas militant group in Palestine.  

MDA Director Vice Adm. Jon Hill said that data collected from the test will guide future development of the AWS and that the agency “remains committed to assisting the Government of Israel in upgrading its missile defense capability against current and emerging threats.” 

Israel displayed its missile defenses last year during the 11-day conflict with Gaza. At the time, the military intercepted about 90 percent of the more than 4,000 rockets fired at the country by the Hamas militant group, according to Israel.