Rampage missile strike in Iran. Israel's silent precision against a nuclear threat
The Israeli public broadcaster Kan has reported that the missile, likely fired by Israel towards a nuclear facility in Iran, is known as "Rampage". This missile is a supersonic air-to-ground type, specifically designed for breaking through and destroying heavily fortified sites like bunkers.
Based on photo analysis and the reported extent of damage, Kan has identified the missile as a "Rampage". This self-navigating missile, measuring nearly 4.7 metres in length, can reach supersonic speeds, significantly hampers its detection and interception by air defence systems.
Israel has yet to make an official statement on the attack, which took place overnight from Thursday to Friday. At the same time, Iran has downplayed the incident, claiming that it involved only three small drones, rather than missiles, targeting Isfahan.
Israel revealed "Rampage" to the public in 2018, and it saw its first use in a combat operation a year later during a strike in Syria.
According to its manufacturers, the Israeli companies Military Industries Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries, "Rampage" weighs just over half a tonne and is engineered to breach and demolish fortified areas, including bunkers.
The "NYT": Missile features advanced technology
The New York Times, quoting sources from Iran on Saturday, reported that the missile targeting the Iranian nuclear facility was fitted with advanced technology, enabling it to evade Iranian missile defences. The "NYT" sources also disclosed that the aircraft from which the missile was deployed was "far from Iranian and Israeli airspace".
On the night of the attack, drone activities were observed in the Isfahan province of Iran. However, the nuclear facilities in this area were not harmed. Israel has remained silent on this event, while Iranian authorities have stated that, so far, no connection between Israel and the attack has been established.
The New York Times has indicated that this operation might have been designed to make Iran reconsider before launching another direct assault on Israel.
