// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
Arrow 3
Arrow 3 is an advanced Israeli missile defense system designed to shoot down enemy ballistic missiles while they are still in space, outside the Earth's atmosphere. It serves as the highest layer of Israel's multi-tiered air defense, providing a long-range defensive shield.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Arrow 3 is an exo-atmospheric hypersonic anti-ballistic missile (ABM) system, co-developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Boeing, forming the upper tier of the Arrow Weapon System (AWS). It utilizes a two-stage interceptor with a divert-and-attitude-control system (DACS) equipped kinetic kill vehicle for hit-to-kill interception of long-range ballistic missiles, including potential ICBMs, in space.
BACKGROUND
The Arrow 3 or Hetz 3 is an exoatmospheric anti-ballistic missile, jointly funded, developed and produced by Israel and the United States. Undertaken by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Boeing, it is overseen by the Israeli Ministry of Defense's "Homa" administration and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. It provides exo-atmospheric interception of ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) carrying nuclear, chemical, biological or conventional warheads. With divert motor capability, its kill vehicle can switch directions dramatically. It can also be adapted for an anti-satellite role: it has sensors that can pivot 90 degrees in order to detect approaching satellites. The missile's reported flight range is up to 2,400 km (1,500 mi).
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Hetz 3
- exo-atmospheric interceptor
- upper-tier missile defense
- hit-to-kill vehicle
- ABM system
- kinetic interceptor
USAGE NOTE
Arrow 3 is specifically cited in discussions of strategic defense against threats like Iranian long-range ballistic missiles, representing the outermost layer of a national defense architecture.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Arrow 3.
The prime contractor for the Arrow Weapon System. IAI's Malam division leads the project, developing and integrating the Arrow 3 interceptor.
The primary American industrial partner in the Arrow 3 program. Boeing co-produces major components of the Arrow 3 interceptor, including the canister and kill vehicle.
A directorate within the Israeli Ministry of Defense that manages the development and procurement of Israel's multi-layered missile defense architecture, including the Arrow 3 system.
A U.S. Department of Defense agency that jointly manages and provides significant funding and technical support for the Arrow 3 program as part of a cooperative agreement with Israel.
A subsidiary of IAI that develops and manufactures the advanced 'Super Green Pine' radar, which serves as the primary detection, tracking, and fire control system for the Arrow 3.
Developer of the 'Golden Citron' (or Citron Tree) Battle Management Center, the command, control, and communications (C3) system that manages the entire Arrow air defense network.
A state-owned Israeli company specializing in rocket propulsion. Tomer develops and manufactures the solid-propellant rocket motors for the Arrow 3 interceptor's booster and upper stage.
The U.S.-based subsidiary of IAI. It facilitates the production of Arrow 3 components within the United States, in cooperation with Boeing and other American suppliers.