Overview
The renewed clash between the Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) of the U.S.‑led coalition (including Israel and the UAE) and Iran has introduced a more sophisticated regional air‑defence architecture than the one used during the brief but intense June 2025 Twelve‑Day War. The conflict now spans the Persian Gulf, prompting the deployment of South Korean Cheongung II missiles, newer U.S. prototypes, and a broader use of existing systems such as THAAD and Patriot batteries.
Key Developments
- UAE integrates Cheongung II to counter low‑flying Iranian cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles over the Gulf.
- U.S. fields prototype Indirect Fire Protection Capability for bases in UAE and Kuwait, easing the load on Patriot.
- Israel relies on Iron Dome and the high‑energy laser Iron Beam to counter drone swarms, while rationing its Arrow 3 and Stunner missiles.
- U.S. Navy deploys SM‑6 missiles in a dual‑role configuration to intercept ballistic missiles and fast‑attack craft.
- Iran continues a saturation attack, using cheap missiles and drones to exhaust coalition interceptors.
Important Facts
• Cost per PAC‑3 MSE interceptor is about $4 million, making extensive use financially taxing.
• Hit‑to‑kill technology is employed by newer interceptors, including Cheongung II and Patriot PAC‑3.
• The U.S. GMD programme shows limited reliability (55 % success).
• Iran’s most advanced indigenous system, the upgraded Bavar‑373, claims 300 km range but its stealth‑aircraft detection remains unproven.
UPSC Relevance
Understanding the evolving IAMD architecture is crucial for GS 2 (Defence & Security) as it illustrates:
- How coalition partners integrate heterogeneous systems (U.S., Israel, UAE, South Korea) to create a layered defence.
- The strategic implications of high‑cost interceptors and the need for rationing in prolonged conflicts.
- Iran’s asymmetric saturation attack doctrine, highlighting the importance of indigenous missile‑defence development for national security.
- Technological trends such as hit‑to‑kill interceptors and directed‑energy weapons, which may shape future Indian defence procurement.
Way Forward
• Accelerate domestic production of interceptors (e.g., indigenous Akash and Barak‑8) to reduce reliance on costly foreign systems.
• Invest in modular, 360° radar and vertical‑launch technologies similar to Cheongung II to counter low‑altitude threats.
• Develop cost‑effective directed‑energy solutions to complement kinetic interceptors, thereby mitigating the financial strain of saturation attacks.
• Enhance joint training and data‑link integration among allied forces to ensure seamless sensor‑fusion and rapid decision‑making in high‑tempo scenarios.