Daniel Myers
The relatively short, but intense, Israel-Iran conflict ultimately illustrated the need for countries to possess an effective shield (air defense capabilities, i.e. IAMD, A2AD, BMD) as well as a mighty sword (ability to conduct precision strikes), as well as need for stockpiles so that these operations can be sustained for substantial periods of time.
Israel’s sophisticated air defense system (largely aided by the U.S.) and its use of deep precision strikes to neutralize high-value targets (HVTs) gave it the upper hand, but Iran’s constant barrage of ballistic missiles and drones (although largely intercepted and inaccurate in targeting) still managed to make impact within Israel, revealing a vulnerability in its defense and causing significant physical and psychological damage.
As the EU seeks to build its own defense and military capabilities, leaders should be taking notes on what just played out in the Middle East.
Precision Strikes and Resilient, but Saturated, Defense Systems
On June 13, 2025, Israeli launched a large-scale offensive against Iran’s nuclear program and military assets. President Benjamin Netanyahu justified the attacks claiming that Iran was close to developing a nuclear weapon threatening “Israel’s survival.” The initial wave of strikes hit Iran’s air defense installations and surface-to-air missile batteries, paving the way for future attacks. By the end of the conflict, Israeli precision strikes had killed 11 nuclear scientists, 30 senior security officials, destroyed around 800-1,000 Iranian missiles and hit 900 military sites. While most of Israel’s strikes were precise, out of the 1,100 people killed, 440 were civilians.
Iran first responded on the night of June 13 by launching a barrage of 150 ballistic missiles at Israel. In total, Iran used an estimated 370-550 ballistic missiles and over 1,000 drones. The Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) says about 50 of these drones made impact, killing 29 people, injuring some 3,000 others, and causing billions in damage as apartment buildings, military sites and parts of the power grid were hit. While about 86% of the ballistic missiles were intercepted, Le Monde reports illustrate the psychological impact in Israel at the start of the conflict: “The streets are empty, the faces anxious, the stores, schools, and businesses shuttered. Since the start of a new war with Iran on June 13, the country has ground to a halt once again.”
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