Israel’s defence ministry reports success of air defence and weapon systems in Operation Rising Lion

According to the Ministry, 86% of ballistic missiles launched from Iran towards Israel were intercepted. This was credited to recent upgrades to the Arrow system, with the latest integration occurring just a week before the operation.

Iron Dome and David’s Sling also underwent enhancements, including a breakthrough Iron Dome test in March that demonstrated the system’s ability to counter drone swarms. During the operation, the multi-layered Israeli air defence system achieved a 99% interception rate against Iranian drones.

The UAV Array played a significant role, operating continuously across long distances and accumulating thousands of flight hours. These unmanned systems conducted over 500 strikes and interdictions within Iranian territory.

Space-based surveillance systems captured tens of millions of square kilometres through round-the-clock observation. The effort produced more than 12,000 satellite images of Iran, supporting operational decision-making throughout the campaign.

Israeli-developed weapon systems, many used for the first time in combat, delivered what the Ministry described as “tactical surprise and air superiority over Iran.” These systems targeted nuclear facilities and missile infrastructure in the preemptive phase of the operation.

DDR&D said that advanced technologies, including digital systems, artificial intelligence, and electronic warfare, “demonstrated exceptional performance across all operational systems.” These capabilities contributed significantly to the success of the mission.

The Ministry stated that during both Operation Rising Lion and the ongoing Swords of Iron War, UAV missions represented 60% of total Israeli Air Force flight hours. Additionally, drones accounted for half of all IDF strike operations.

“The systems we have developed over decades with the defence industries and IDF branches have proven their value decisively,” said a Ministry spokesperson. The evaluation underscores years of focused development in five main areas: Air Defence, UAVs, Space, Fighter Aircraft Armaments, and AI and Digital Systems.