Iran missile complexes, airbases: Israel's likely retaliation targets

By crippling Iran's air force, Israel could significantly reduce the threat of future missile or aerial assaults. It would prevent Iran from launching retaliatory strikes and reduce its operational reach over the Middle East.

In Short

• Israel likely to target Iran's missile complexes, military airbases
• Iran launched over 180 missiles at Israel earlier this week
• Iran has heightened air defences, anticipating Israeli strikes

The Middle East stands on the brink of a dangerous escalation as Israel prepares to retaliate following a devastating missile strike launched by Iran. With tensions soaring, Israel is now weighing a decisive military response that could target Iran’s most crucial military infrastructure, setting the stage for a high-stakes confrontation.

As both nations brace for further conflict, the looming question remains: What will Israel’s targets be, and how will it defend itself against Iran’s formidable military assets?

POTENTIAL TARGETS IN ISRAEL'S RETALIATION

In the event of Israeli retaliation, the first and foremost targets are expected to be Iran’s missile facilities and airbases, sources told India Today TV, adding that the underground missile complex near Khorramabad, where ballistic missiles are stored and launched, could be at the top of the list.

The strategic location of the missile base, with its proximity to both Tel Aviv and the Iraqi border, makes it a critical node in Iran’s missile network. Israel would aim to neutralise these underground silos to weaken Iran’s offensive capabilities.

Iran’s airbases, spread across the country, would also be key targets. By crippling Iran’s air force, Israel could significantly reduce the threat of future missile or aerial assaults.

The destruction of these tactical airbases would prevent Iran from launching retaliatory strikes and reduce its operational reach over the Middle East. Alongside these military installations, Israel might target Iran’s nuclear facilities, weapons production sites, and key command centres to paralyse the country’s ability to wage war.

COMPLEXES, MISSILE BASES: IRAN'S SHIELD

In the heart of Iran, beneath the rugged terrain of Kermanshah, lies a vast network of underground military facilities. These fortified installations serve as a bulwark against aerial attacks, with anti-aircraft missile batteries constantly on high alert, scanning the skies for any threat.

The city of Kermanshah, known for its strategic importance, remains protected by these vigilant defences. But beyond this, another critical target could be the Imam Ali Missile Silo Base near Khorramabad. This missile base is strategically located just 1,265 kilometres from Tel Aviv and a mere 195 kilometres from the Iraq border.

Beneath the ground of the region lies an entire subterranean city filled with missiles. Every type of ballistic missile has a launch site, making it a formidable military complex. With a total of eight tunnels carved into the earth, the facility houses missiles capable of striking targets as far as 1,300 kilometres away.

Built deep within the mountains, the base is designed to withstand bunker-busting ammunition, providing a natural layer of defence against any attack.

AIRBASES: HEART OF IRAN'S MILITARY RESPONSE

In modern warfare, air superiority is critical. To bring any country to its knees, one must target the first responders - the air force and their bases. This is precisely what Iran did during its strikes against Israel.

Many of the missiles launched were aimed at airbases from where Israel conducted its air operations against terrorist threats in Lebanon and Yemen. It is clear that, in retaliation, Israel would similarly target Iranian airbases, from which the Iranian Air Force operates.

Iran has a total of 17 airbases scattered across different regions, all of which are tactical in nature. These bases are pivotal for launching and sustaining military operations. The destruction of these airbases would cripple Iran’s ability to conduct large-scale air campaigns.

IRAN'S AIR DEFENCE ON HIGH ALERT

Fully aware of the possibility of an Israeli counterattack, Iran has ramped up security around its critical military installations. Iran’s short-range, low-altitude air defence system, known as Azarakhsh (Thunderbolt), is now active and ready.

In addition to this, surface-to-air missile systems have been put on high alert to defend the skies. Long-range Russian systems like the S-200 and S-300, along with Iran’s domestically developed Bavar-373, stand ready to intercept incoming threats.

At medium range, systems like the US-made MIM-23 Hawk, HQ-2j, and Khordad-15 have been deployed. For close-range defence, Chinese-made CH-SA-4 systems and the 9K331 Tor-M1 are also on high alert. Together, these air defence layers create a formidable shield, providing Iran with multiple lines of defence against an aerial onslaught.