Each Iron Dome interceptor costs approximately US$50,000 whereas the rockets it intercepts — often crude and inexpensive — may cost as little as a few hundred dollars This disparity underscores the economic challenge Israel faces in defending itself against asymmetric warfare
During the May 2021 Gaza conflict, Hamas fired over 4,000 rockets at Israel The Iron Dome intercepted 90% of those deemed a threat, reportedly costing Israel hundreds of millions of dollars
Beyond the financial toll, indirect costs — such as disruptions to daily life, economic activity and psychological strain on civilians — further compound the burden
Since October 2023 rocket fire from Gaza and Lebanon has surged, with estimates exceeding 7,000 rockets fired in the months following Hamas’s coordinated attack Each interception — while saving lives — adds to mounting defence expenditures
An enemy only needs to “get lucky” once to penetrate air defences and strike a high-rise tower in Tel Aviv or critical infrastructure Israel however must get lucky every time
07 October 2023 Colossal Failure All fronts
1. well-resourced Intelligence agencies in the world — famed and deadly Mossad, Shin Bet 2. Surveillance 3. Technology 4. Communications 5. IDF
