Israel-Iran war day 10: Weapons that could change the war’s outcome

A shield in the sky. Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system has become one of the most recognised military technologies in modern warfare. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, it intercepts short-range rockets mid-air. According to Israeli defence data, the system has an interception success rate of over 90%, making it a critical protective layer for cities under constant missile threat.

Ballistic missiles are the backbone of long-range military power in the Middle East. Iran possesses one of the region’s largest missile arsenals, including Shahab and Fateh series missiles capable of travelling hundreds to thousands of kilometres. Experts from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) say missile saturation attacks could overwhelm defence systems if launched in large numbers.

Unmanned aerial vehicles have transformed modern warfare. From surveillance drones to explosive-laden attack UAVs, these systems allow militaries to strike targets with precision and lower operational costs. Defence analysts note that drone swarms—multiple UAVs launched simultaneously—can confuse air defences and dramatically change battlefield dynamics.

Control of the skies often determines the outcome of modern wars. Israel’s fleet of F-35 stealth fighter jets gives it one of the most advanced air forces in the region. The aircraft’s radar-evading design allows it to penetrate enemy airspace and conduct precision strikes, making air superiority a decisive factor in any large-scale conflict.

Submarines operate silently beneath the surface, making them one of the most unpredictable weapons of war. Israel’s Dolphin-class submarines, believed by analysts to have long-range strike capabilities, add a powerful strategic deterrent. Naval warfare experts say submarines can influence conflicts without ever being seen.

Modern missile and drone systems are increasingly designed for surgical strikes rather than large-scale bombardment. Precision-guided munitions allow militaries to target infrastructure, command centres and military bases with extraordinary accuracy, dramatically increasing battlefield effectiveness.

The next frontier in warfare may lie in hypersonic missiles. These weapons travel at speeds greater than Mach 5 and can manoeuvre unpredictably, making them extremely difficult to intercept. Defence analysts say hypersonic technology could redefine global military balance in the coming decades. (Artistic rendering)

War today is fought not only on land, sea and air, but also in cyberspace. Cyber warfare tools can disable power grids, communications systems and financial networks. Security researchers warn that digital attacks could cause chaos without a single missile being launched.

Modern wars are increasingly decided by technology rather than troop numbers. Advanced sensors, satellite intelligence, artificial intelligence and electronic warfare systems now shape battlefield decisions. Experts say the side with superior technology often gains a decisive strategic advantage.