Israel Set to Deploy Advanced Arrow 4 Missile Defence System, Confirms IAI Chief

Israel is on the brink of deploying its next-generation Arrow 4 missile defence system, a powerful advancement in its multi-layered air defense shield. Boaz Levy, CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), confirmed the system's imminent operational deployment, stating that development is progressing swiftly and a new level of interception capability is being introduced to counter emerging threats.

The Arrow 4 has been developed jointly by IAI and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, with the program officially launched in February 2021. It is designed as a direct successor to Arrow 3, and will complement Israel's existing Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 systems, both of which have been vital components in Israel’s anti-ballistic missile defence architecture for over two decades.

Unlike its predecessors, Arrow 4 is optimized to counter shorter- to medium-range ballistic threats, including newer, faster, and more maneuverable missiles such as hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs) and high-precision tactical projectiles. It incorporates advanced manoeuvrability, a next-gen seeker, and a new precision-optimized warhead. These features are engineered to intercept threats in the lower exo-atmosphere, where traditional long-range interceptors like Arrow 3 may not be as effective.

One of the key operational innovations of Arrow 4 is its "shoot-look-shoot" doctrine—a tactical approach allowing the system to perform mid-course corrections and launch additional interceptors if the first attempt misses. This increases kill probability and provides greater flexibility in real-time combat situations.

The system integrates seamlessly into the broader Arrow Weapon System (AWS), which also includes the ELM-2080 "Green Pine" Radar, capable of detecting and tracking ballistic missiles at speeds exceeding 3 km/s. This radar feeds data to the Battle Management Center, which assesses threats and initiates interception sequences using Arrow 2, Arrow 3, or now Arrow 4, depending on the trajectory and type of incoming missile.

The Arrow 4’s deployment comes amid growing regional threats, especially from adversaries developing more sophisticated ballistic arsenals. Levy emphasized that “a new line of missile defense is essential for the protection of Israeli citizens,” adding that the next phase, Arrow 5, is already in the works to eventually replace Arrow 3 and extend interception capabilities even further.

Beyond domestic defense, global interest in the Arrow 4 is rising. Germany, which recently acquired Arrow 3 under NATO’s European Sky Shield Initiative, is reportedly considering Arrow 4 as part of its future missile defense strategy. The system’s modularity, international compatibility, and interoperability with allied frameworks make it a strong candidate for multinational deployments.

The Arrow 4 is expected to enter operational trials within the next two years, but IAI officials suggest deployment could be expedited if strategic threats intensify. Once fielded, it will mark a significant leap in missile interception capability, reinforcing Israel's position as a global leader in multi-layered missile defense technologies.

With Arrow 4 nearing deployment, Israel not only enhances its national security but also sets the stage for expanded international cooperation in advanced missile defence.