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.
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.