Iranian Missiles vs. US Air Defense: Why Interceptions Are Becoming a Problem

Iran is actively attacking US bases in the Middle East with Khaibar-Shekan missiles, which maneuver at speeds of about Mach 5. The article analyzes the missile's technical features, the tactic of exhausting air defenses, and the economic imbalance: cheap Iranian missiles versus expensive interceptors.

Iran is actively attacking US bases in the Middle East using the Khaibar-Shekan ballistic missile. This solid-fuel missile requires no lengthy launch preparation, can be quickly transported by truck, and launched before detection. Its warhead, weighing about 500 kg, separates from the body in the terminal phase and maneuvers, reaching speeds of about 10,000 km/h (Mach 5), making interception difficult. Iran employs a comprehensive tactic: Khaibar-Shekan launches are combined with mass attacks of simpler missiles and drones, overwhelming air defense systems. Targets include not only bases but also radar stations. The economic imbalance favors Tehran: producing an Iranian missile is cheap, while each US or Israeli interceptor costs between $2 and $15 million. Thus, the confrontation turns into a war of attrition against the enemy's financial resources. The article references The Wall Street Journal.