Iron Dome successfully passes new tests as its capabilities grow

The Defense Ministry says Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system has successfully completed a series of tests designed to “counter emerging threats in the region.”

In a statement, the ministry says the tests were carried out by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, in conjunction with the IDF, and in collaboration with defense firms Israel Aerospace Industries and mPrest Systems.

“Within the framework of the tests, various types of [aerial] threats were launched, which simulate the developing threats in the region,” the Defense Ministry said.

Following a barrage of mortar fire from Gaza last month, the IDF revealed that the Iron Dome system’s capabilities had expanded from being able to hit short-range rockets to the ability to bring down projectiles as small as medium-sized mortar shells.