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Over the past two decades, Israel has invested billions in preparing for a possible strike on Iran, developing advanced munitions and capabilities in the process.
While much of the information remains classified, some of these developments have surfaced through sales to foreign air forces.
The extensive preparations highlight Israel’s efforts to overcome the significant challenges posed by a potential strike on Iran’s fortified nuclear facilities.
Last month, Israel conducted a strike in Yemen, deploying F-15 jets from a base 1,800 kilometers away, showcasing its ability to operate at long ranges.
These aircraft, originally designed for air combat, have been modified by the Israeli Air Force for strike missions and equipped to carry state-of-the-art munitions from both American and Israeli manufacturers.
However, an attack on Iran presents a more complex challenge due to its well-protected nuclear sites and advanced air defense systems.
Iran’s nuclear facilities and ballistic missile bases are deeply embedded underground, making them difficult to target.
Additionally, Iran operates a sophisticated air defense system, reportedly comparable to Russia’s S-300 in intercepting missiles.
Despite this, recent Israeli strikes attributed to Israel, such as the one on Isfahan, have successfully penetrated these defenses.
Israel’s military preparations include a significant investment in long-range fighter jets, utilizing portions of U.S. aid to acquire squadrons of F-15I and F-16I aircraft.
Lockheed Martin developed conformal fuel tanks for these jets, enhancing their range without compromising their radar signature.
There are also reports of detachable fuel tanks being developed for F-35 jets, which would allow them to reach Iran while retaining stealth capabilities.
In the late 2000s, Israel’s defense industries introduced two long-range attack missiles, capable of being launched from fighter jets and reaching targets hundreds of kilometers away.
These missiles, which travel at supersonic speeds, minimize the chances of interception and enhance the probability of hitting their intended targets.
Among these advanced munitions is the Rampage missile, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Elbit Systems.
Originally based on the EXTRA rocket, it has been adapted for air deployment, featuring multiple navigation systems to ensure accuracy.
With a 150 kg warhead, the Rampage can be launched from F-15, F-16, and F-35 aircraft, making it versatile and cost-effective.
Another key development is the Rocks missile by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, unveiled in 2019. It combines supersonic cruise capabilities with satellite, inertial navigation, and optical targeting to strike fortified structures.
Capable of carrying a 500 kg warhead, it is considered suitable for targeting underground sites. Israel’s arsenal also reportedly includes the PopEye Turbo cruise missile, with a range of 1,500 km and the ability to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads.
Launched from submarines, it allows strikes on Iran from the Red Sea or Arabian Sea. While Israel maintains a policy of ambiguity about certain capabilities, ongoing preparations indicate readiness for a potential confrontation, with undisclosed munitions likely awaiting deployment at a critical moment.