After Israeli aircraft carried out operations in Syria on March 16, the country’s Arrow-3 missile defense system got its first taste of action, according to the Jerusalem Post. The system’s first deployment is relevant both in showcasing its abilities and in confirming Israel’s operations in Syria. According to an Israeli Air Force statement, “IAF aircraft targeted several targets in Syria,” and during the operation and the ensuing Syrian counterfire—which resulted in Arrow’s moment to shine—“At no point was the safety of Israeli civilians or the IAF aircraft compromised.” Despite Israel’s claims, Sy?ria said one of its SAMs did take down an Israeli aircraft, according to the BBC. And while Israel claimed the Arrow-3 intercepted one of the SAMs, two others landed in Israel, according to the article.
MH-139 Reaches Initial Operational Capability
Sept. 1, 2026
The Air Force’s new nuclear security helicopter, the MH-139A Grey Wolf, achieved initial operational capability this month—a significant milestone in the service’s effort to replace its Vietnam War-era UH-1N Hueys but years later than originally planned.