Hezbollah's escalating arsenal: A growing threat to Middle East stability
Hezbollah, the leading Shiite armed organisation in Lebanon, has been one of the key players in the Middle East for years. With support from Iran, the group possesses a broad arsenal that allows it to conduct military operations against Israel regularly.
The Lebanese Hezbollah launched an intense attack on Israel, hitting 11 military targets and firing over 320 Katyusha rockets. Israel responded with attacks on terrorist targets in Lebanon, declaring a state of emergency for 48 hours. Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasised that Israel will firmly defend its territory. As a result of Israeli airstrikes, a key Hezbollah commander, Fuad Shukr, was killed, heightening tensions in the region. What arsenal does Hezbollah possess?
Drones
Hezbollah has various types of drones that strike enemy territories, such as in attacks on northern Israeli territories. These drones are primarily produced and supplied by Iran. They are used for reconnaissance and carrying small explosive payloads, allowing for precise attacks on selected targets.
Concrete rocket launchers
An intriguing element of Hezbollah's arsenal is concrete rocket launchers. The organisation has demonstrated how building materials can be surprisingly used for offensive purposes. Concrete rocket launchers of 120 mm calibre are just one example of innovative solutions. According to the Centre for Strategic and International Studies analyses, Hezbollah has a militia of about 20,000 active members and a similar number of reservists. These launchers can be used to bombard northern Israeli territories.
The high precision provided by these launchers makes them a serious threat to Israel. For example, the concrete launchers, despite their larger size and lower mobility compared to the popular BM-21 Grad in the region, have identical firepower and a single salvo of 40 rockets in 20 seconds can cause massive destruction.
Anti-aircraft and anti-tank weapons
Hezbollah also possesses modern anti-aircraft and anti-tank equipment. The organisation receives support from Iran, allowing it to have equipment such as portable QW-18 anti-aircraft systems capable of shooting down targets within a range of up to 5 km and at an altitude of up to 4 km. Anti-aircraft systems of this type use a dual-band seeker, significantly increasing their effectiveness.
Additionally, Hezbollah fighters have in their arsenal modern anti-tank guided missiles such as Toophan, Dehlavieh, and Kornet-E, which can be effectively used against Israeli artillery and armoured vehicles. These weapon systems significantly enhance Hezbollah's combat capabilities, enabling it to conduct effective offensive operations.
Artillery and ballistic missiles
Hezbollah also has an impressive artillery and rocket arsenal. The arsenal includes BM-21 Grad rocket launchers with a 122 mm calibre, capable of striking targets up to 20 km away. Moreover, the group has more advanced systems like BM-27 Uragan with a 220 mm calibre, able to hit targets at a distance of up to 60 km. Hezbollah also possesses various types of ballistic missiles, including Iranian Zelzal-1 and Zelzal-2, capable of attacking targets 130-210 km away.
However, the most dangerous weapon in Hezbollah's arsenal is the Fateh-110 ballistic missile, which can reach a range of 300 km and carry very precise warheads thanks to inertial and satellite navigation. The organisation is also reported to have acquired SCUD launchers, capable of carrying payloads from 600 to 1,000 kg and reaching a range of 300 to 550 km. These weapon systems make Hezbollah a formidable opponent and a potential threat to regional stability.
New technologies in Hezbollah's arsenal
Hezbollah constantly updates its military resources by introducing modern technologies into its arsenal. In recent years, the organisation has acquired drone systems manufactured in Iran. Unmanned aerial vehicles, used in reconnaissance and combat operations, significantly increase Hezbollah's operational capabilities. These drones are not only difficult to detect but can also carry small explosive payloads, making them a dangerous offensive weapon.
Another technological advancement in Hezbollah's possession is the Bastion systems used to counter naval units. These advanced, Russian-origin missile systems have enormous offensive potential and can be used to attack significant enemy navy units. Hezbollah also possesses portable missile systems, allowing for flexible combat operations in various terrains.
Threat to regional stability
The weaponry possessed by Hezbollah poses a significant threat to stability in the Middle East. The organisation, supported by Iran, has a diverse and expanding arsenal that allows it to conduct extensive military operations. This directly impacts the escalation of conflicts in the region, particularly in relations with Israel.
The situation could become even more dangerous without international intervention and sensible dialogue. In the current conditions, Hezbollah's weaponry is one of the key militarily and politically in the Middle East. So far, the organisation has shown that it is prepared for various scenarios and possesses the means for prolonged conflict.
