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In May 2024, the Israeli Defense Forces targeted Hezbollah’s air defense sites near Najjarieh and Aaddousiyyeh, south of Sidon, destroying facilities storing Iranian Sayyad-2 surface-to-air missiles. Missile and space researcher Tal Inbar analyzed debris from the strikes, identifying the missiles as Sayyad-2C variants based on serial number comparisons.
Videos published following the strike reveal the debris of an Iranian Sayyad 2 surface-to-air missile. A comparison of the missile’s serial numbers to comparable missiles previously exhibited suggests that it is a Sayyad 2C.
Tal Inbar, a missile and space researcher
The Sayyad-2 is a radar-guided missile, derived from the American RIM-66, with an operational range between 65 and 100 kilometers and a maximum interception altitude of 27 to 30 kilometers. These missiles are integrated into various Iranian air defense systems, including Tabas, Khordad 15, Khordad 3, and Ra’ad, and are also deployed on IRGC navy ships and within the Iranian army.
Hezbollah’s possession of such advanced missile systems underscores the extent of Iranian support through established weapons corridors and highlights Tehran’s commitment to enhancing Hezbollah’s air defense capabilities. The presence of these missiles in Lebanon suggests that Hezbollah may have access to complete air defense systems, potentially challenging Israeli air operations in the region.
This development aligns with Iran’s broader strategy of equipping its proxies with sophisticated weaponry, as evidenced by the deployment of advanced air defense systems in Syria and the transfer of various missile technologies to allied groups.
Alma Center. Read the full article: https://israel-alma.org/hezbollah-equipping-itself-with-iranian-sayyad-2-surface-to-air-missiles/