Peloni: With the recent report of Germany’s unilateral cancellation of arms shipments to Israel related to the Gaza operation, it calls to mind the German contract for obtaining Israel’s Arrow 3 system. In reading the Norsk Luftvern article below regarding the Arrow 3, pay particular attention to the scope of advantages which places the Arrow 3 well above its competitors in many respects. Indeed, in the areas of range, cost, and capabilities, the Arrow 3 stands alone in its performance. Considering this fact, is it just German arrogance fueling their expectation that threatening Israel might not jeopardize their acquisition of the Arrow 3, which provides the economically challenged Germany with a real need of such a low cost, and diverse aerial defense system as the Arrow 3. Alternatively, and more likely I would argue, is it possible that this partial embargo on Israel, in which is still ambiguous on what arms will be affected, is simply a charade intended to sway the support of pro-Hamas German voters? If not, Israel should challenge the Germans with the stark reality that arms embargos can be bilateral as well as unilateral, and arms shipments can be cancelled from Israel just as easily as they are in Germany.
Norskluftvern.com | July 25, 2025
Arrow 3 anti-ballistic missile, exoatmospheric air defense system, made by the Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd, deployed in the Israeli Air Defense Command, under the Israeli Air Force. (Photo bBy Administration for the Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructure and Ministry of Defense, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikipedia)
Exo-Atmospheric Defense with Competitive Pricing
Arrow-3 interceptors cost approximately $4 million each, making them 86% less expensive than competing SM-3 Block IIA systems while offering superior range and proven combat effectiveness. This significant cost advantage, combined with recent combat successes defending Israel against Iranian ballistic missile attacks, positions Arrow-3 as the most cost-effective exo-atmospheric defense system available for export. Germany’s $3.5 billion procurement represents Israel’s largest defense export and validates international confidence in the system’s capabilities.
Arrow-3 represents a paradigm shift in high-altitude missile defense, offering strategic-level capabilities at tactical-level pricing. The system’s ability to intercept targets at ranges exceeding 2,400 kilometers while maintaining combat-proven reliability makes it attractive to nations seeking ICBM defense without the premium costs of American alternatives.
Cost analysis reveals significant advantages
Arrow-3 interceptors cost $4 million each based on recent Israeli defense budget allocations and industry analysis, though some estimates suggest costs may reach $30-35 million when including full development expenses. This pricing represents exceptional value compared to competing systems, with complete battery costs estimated at $170 million including launchers, radar, and command systems.
SM-3 Block IIA interceptors cost $27.9 million each, making them 600% more expensive than Arrow-3. While both systems offer exo-atmospheric interception capabilities, Arrow-3’s superior range (2,400 km vs. 1,200 km) and combat-proven performance make the cost differential difficult to justify for most customers.
David’s Sling interceptors cost $1 million each, making them 75% less expensive than Arrow-3. However, David’s Sling’s limited range (40-300 km) and atmospheric-only interception capability make it unsuitable for the strategic ballistic missile threats that Arrow-3 was designed to counter.
Combat performance validates design approach
Arrow-3’s operational record demonstrates exceptional effectiveness since entering service. The system achieved its first operational interception in November 2023, successfully engaging a Houthi missile near Eilat. During major Iranian attacks in April and October 2024, Arrow-3 interceptors achieved what Israeli officials describe as “very high success rates” approaching 99% effectiveness in some scenarios.
Germany – land of pussies these days. Where sucking up to Islam is paramount.
Where yelling obscenities at a terrorisrt to distract him from his killing spree, gets you a jail sentence. Whah Whah Whah.