Israel could field Arrow 3 missile shield earlier than planned

Analysis of the Arrow 3 ballistic missile test performed early this year suggests that Israel will be able to shorten the time required to achieve operational status with the system.
During a flight conducted on 25 February by Israel's Missile Defense Organization and the US Missile Defense Agency, an Arrow 3 interceptor performed an exo-atmospheric trajectory through space, in accordance with the test plan.
The Arrow 3 interceptor is designed to provide an additional level of defence against ballistic missiles
Lighter than the interceptor used in Israel's operational Arrow 2 system, the new round will intercept incoming missiles outside the atmosphere.
According to its manufacturer, the new system features improved detection, discrimination and fire control capabilities, which will permit two and possibly three chances to kill each incoming weapon. The Arrow 3 architecture will have a very high probability of intercepting any suspected nuclear missile, and be able to also engage salvos of longer-range ballistic missiles equipped with countermeasures.
An air launch of two Rafael Silver Sparrow target missiles from an Israeli air force Boeing F-15 on 9 September was also connected to the accelerated development of the Arrow 3 system.
flightglobal