Iran is using the tactic of mass launches of inexpensive drones to force the United States and its allies to expend expensive anti-aircraft missiles. This raises questions about the sustainability of US air defense systems in the region during a prolonged conflict
A ballistic missile was intercepted over the Mediterranean Sea near Turkey, reports The New York Times. According to the newspaper, the US military believes the missile may have been launched from Iran toward the Turkish air base Incirlik, where a large contingent of the US Air Force is stationed.
The publication reminded readers that Turkey is a member of NATO, and a strike on its territory could automatically draw all alliance countries into the conflict.
Tehran rejected the accusations of launching a missile toward Turkey. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Iran stated that the country respects the sovereignty of the neighboring state and did not carry out strikes on its territory. The statement was distributed by Iran’s state broadcasting corporation.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized that Tehran is not conducting military actions against neighboring states and has no reason for a conflict with Ankara. He noted that Iran maintains good relations with Turkey.
Iran is using the tactic of mass launches of inexpensive drones to force the United States and its allies to expend costly anti-aircraft missiles. This raises questions about the sustainability of US air defense systems in the region during a prolonged conflict. The New York Times reported this while analyzing the course of the US and Israeli military operation against Iran.
According to experts, the key factor is the mismatch in costs. While Iranian Shahed kamikaze drones are estimated at $20,000–$50,000 per unit, a single Patriot interceptor missile costs the US budget more than $3 million.
Source: Rossa Primavera News Agency
