Tel Aviv: A former commander of the Israeli Air Force has outlined how Iran’s overhauled air defense strategy is increasingly capable of targeting advanced U.S. aircraft, following reports of recent shootdowns during the ongoing conflict.
According to the former official, Iran implemented sweeping changes after a brief but intense earlier phase of fighting, fundamentally shifting its doctrine. As a result, operations that were once considered low-risk for foreign air forces have become significantly more dangerous.
Decentralized systems and mobility reshape battlefield dynamics
Iran has divided its air defense network into 31 independently functioning zones. Consequently, each sector can operate without direct coordination from central command in Tehran, ensuring continuity even if leadership nodes are disrupted.
In addition, Iranian forces now rely heavily on mobile launch platforms using “shoot-and-scoot” tactics. These systems operate from tunnels and mountainous terrain, allowing rapid repositioning and reducing vulnerability to counterstrikes. This mobility complicates detection and targeting by opposing forces.
Advanced missile systems and passive tracking increase threat level
Moreover, Iran has integrated advanced systems such as China’s HQ-9B surface-to-air missile platform, which combines radar and infrared guidance. This dual capability challenges conventional electronic countermeasures.
At the same time, passive infrared tracking systems allow Iranian defenses to detect aircraft without emitting radar signals. Therefore, pilots may not receive warnings before missile launches. Iran’s domestically developed Bavar-373 system has also reportedly surpassed older Russian platforms in capability.
Together, these changes reflect a shift toward layered, resilient defenses. As a result, recent aircraft losses highlight a growing challenge to previously assumed air superiority in the region.
