18 Jun 2025

How does Israel's Iron Dome work?

From Nights, 9:25 pm on 18 June 2025

As the conflict between Israel and Iran rages on, we watch missiles and drones being launched and intercepted between the two countries. 

And you may have heard a lot about Israel's Iron Dome -- an elite, world-leading air defence system, that has enabled Israel to avoid much of the destructive potential of conflict with Iran -- thus far.

Emile Donovan speaks to Michael Shoebridge the director and co-founder of Strategic Analysis Australia. He's worked in Australian intelligence and defence for twenty years, including as the head of defence, intelligence and research in the Prime Minister's Department. 

Israeli missile launched from the Iron Dome defence missile system, designed to intercept and destroy incoming short-range rockets and artillery shells, is seen above Gaza city on November 13, 2019. (Photo by MAHMUD HAMS / AFP)

Photo: AFP