Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Israel deployed advanced fighter jets and missiles in a major offensive, carrying out “precise strikes on military targets” in Iran amid the escalating conflict between the two regional rivals. The strikes, happening in three waves, followed Iran’s launch of almost 200 ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah and Hamas chiefs.
Fighter Jets and Weapons Deployed in Strikes
For the mission, Israel utilized its fifth-generation F-35 Adir fighter jets, F-15I Ra’am ground attack jets, and F-16I Sufa air defence jets, covering approximately 2,000 kilometres. The strikes used ‘Rampage’ long-range, supersonic missiles and ‘Rocks’ next-generation extended stand-off air-to-surface missiles.
Focus on Military Targets, Not Nuclear or Oil Facilities
The Israeli forces strictly targeted military facilities, avoiding nuclear and oil sites to reduce the risk of broader escalation. A total of 100 fighter jets participated in three waves, aiming at 20 missile and drone facilities across Iran. In the first wave, Israeli forces targeted Iranian radar and air defence installations to clear the way for subsequent strikes on military bases.
Three Waves of Strikes Target Iran’s Facilities
Iran’s missile and drone facilities were specifically targeted during the second and third waves of attacks. Fighter jets carried out these strikes in groups of 25-30, with 10 jets coordinating missile strikes while others provided aerial cover and created diversionary tactics.
Operation ‘Days of Repentance’ Underway
The operation, called ‘Operation Days of Repentance,’ had Israeli and US air defences on high alert to respond to any retaliatory missile strikes from Iran. The situation in the Middle East has remained tense since October 1, when Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles at Israel, and both sides have prepared for subsequent confrontations.
Retaliation Postponed Due to Weather
Israel postponed its retaliatory strikes due to adverse weather conditions. Since the missiles used rely on camera seekers for precision targeting, Israeli forces waited for optimal visibility before launching the operation.
Iran’s Response: Limited Damage Claimed
In response to the attacks, Iran claimed that its air defence systems successfully countered Israel’s strikes in Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam provinces, with “limited damage” reported at several locations. Additionally, both Iran and its neighbour Iraq closed their respective airspaces following the attacks as a precautionary measure.
