Israel has deployed its ship-mounted defense system, known as the C-Dome, for the first time against a suspicious aerial target that violated the country's airspace near the southern city of Eilat. The military confirmed this development on April 9, 2024, marking a significant milestone in Israel's defense capabilities.
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An Iron Dome missile defense system fires an interceptor from a Sa’ar-6 corvette, at a target during an exercise in May 2023 (left). An Israeli Navy Sa'ar 6-class corvette launches two interceptor missiles from a C-Dome system at a suspected drone, in the Eilat Bay, late April 8, 2024. (right) (Picture source: IDF/ X @DocumentIsrael The C-Dome is the naval variant of the Iron Dome air defense system, renowned for its effectiveness against rocket and missile threats. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) swiftly responded to alerts in the Eilat region, previously targeted by ballistic missile attacks from Yemen's Houthi rebels, allies of Hamas, in February.
According to an IDF statement released early April 9, 2024, naval forces successfully intercepted the suspicious aerial target using the C-Dome defense system. While the IDF did not confirm whether the intruder was a drone, this operational use of the C-Dome marks a crucial moment in Israel's defense strategy.
Mounted on Sa'ar 6-class corvettes, and German-made warships, the C-Dome utilizes the same interception technology as the renowned Iron Dome system. Developed by the state-owned operator Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the C-Dome provides a crucial layer of protection for naval assets against aerial threats.
Despite activating the defense system, no injuries or damage were reported following the interception. The IDF's swift and successful response underscores Israel's commitment to preserving its territorial integrity and protecting its population against potential security threats.
The cost-effective nature of the Iron Dome interceptor, also used by the C-Dome, highlights Israel's innovative approach to defense. With a cost of approximately $50,000 per launch, the system offers a cost-effective solution to counter aerial threats in both land and maritime environments.
