The recent direct attack on Israel by Iran has intensified scrutiny of both countries' air forces and aerial defence capabilities. Here's a detailed overview of their respective military assets:
**Iran's Air Force:** Despite having 37,000 personnel, Iran's air force faces limitations due to international sanctions, resulting in a scarcity of modern military equipment. The fleet primarily consists of Russian and older US models acquired before the 1979 revolution. Key aircraft include F-4 and F-5 fighter jets, Sukhoi-24s, MiG-29s, F7s, and F14s. Additionally, Iran possesses pilotless drones and a significant inventory of surface-to-surface missiles. However, its air defence relies on a combination of Russian and domestically produced systems, such as the S-300 anti-aircraft system from Russia and the Bavar-373 platform.
**Israel's Air Force:** In contrast, Israel boasts a sophisticated air force equipped with advanced US-supplied aircraft, including F-15s, F-16s, and F-35s. Although lacking long-range bombers, Israel utilizes repurposed Boeing 707s as refuelling tankers to extend the operational range of its fighters. The country is also a pioneer in drone technology, with capabilities such as the Heron pilotless planes. Israel's arsenal includes the Delilah loitering munition and long-range surface-to-surface missiles, although details on these remain undisclosed. Moreover, Israel has developed a multi-layer aerial defence system, comprising Arrow-3, Arrow-2, David's Sling, and Iron Dome, in collaboration with the US, enhancing its ability to counter various threats.
**Assessment:** In the event of a conflict between Iran and Israel, Iran's air defences may face challenges due to their relative weaknesses compared to Israel's advanced capabilities. Israel's air force, supported by robust aerial defence systems, provides a formidable deterrent against potential threats. However, the evolving dynamics in the region underscore the importance of vigilance and preparedness for both nations to address emerging security challenges effectively.
