Boaz Levy, CEO of IAI, confirmed the imminent operational deployment of the Arrow 4, stating, “The next generation of development is also underway.” The missile, designed as a direct evolution of the Arrow 3, will focus on shorter-range threats with improved targeting precision.
According to Maariv, Arrow 4 will provide an additional layer of defence alongside the existing Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 systems, which serve as the backbone of Israel’s anti-ballistic shield. Arrow 2, operational since 2000, and Arrow 3, introduced in 2017, form the current first line of defence capable of intercepting threats in high-altitude regions of the atmosphere.
The Arrow Weapon System (AWS), comprising Arrow 2 and Arrow 3, is the world’s first operational, national anti-tactical ballistic missile defence system. With support from the ELM-2080 Green Pine Radar, the system detects, tracks, and intercepts ballistic missiles at speeds of up to 3 km/s, offering protection against diverse warhead threats.
IAI highlights that Arrow 4 introduces advanced manoeuvrability and seeker technology, combined with a new warhead optimised for precision strikes. The system supports a “shoot-look-shoot” operational doctrine, allowing mid-course correction and layered response against hypersonic or ballistic missile attacks.
The Arrow 4 programme began in February 2021, with Israel and the United States announcing the joint development initiative through the Israel Missile Defence Organisation and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. It represents a strategic leap forward in Israel’s air defence posture.
The missile’s design aims to respond to new generations of faster and more evasive threats, including hypersonic projectiles. IAI stresses its importance in providing “a new line of missile defence for the citizens of Israel against threats from hostile states seeking its destruction.”
The system is expected to enter operational trials within two years, though timelines may be accelerated if required. In parallel, IAI is also working on Arrow 5, intended to eventually replace Arrow 3 and address the most sophisticated ballistic threats.
International attention has also been drawn to the Arrow 4. Germany, which procured the Arrow 3 under the European Sky Shield Initiative, is reportedly considering adopting the Arrow 4 to bolster its layered missile defences. The system’s modularity and multi-national compatibility position it as a viable option for future coalition defence frameworks.
With the upcoming deployment of Arrow 4, Israel continues to strengthen its layered missile defence capabilities. The system represents a technological and strategic advancement, enhancing both national security and international defence cooperation.
