The ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel have sparked intense debate about the military capabilities of both nations. Let’s dive into the details:
Military Personnel and Spending
- Iran has a larger military personnel, with approximately 610,000 active personnel, compared to Israel’s 169,500.
- However, Israel outspends Iran in military expenditure, with a budget of $24.4 billion, more than double Iran’s $10 billion.
Air Power
- Israel has a significant air power advantage, with around 310 fighter jets, including advanced F-35I, F-15I, and F-16I aircraft.
- Iran operates around 200 fighter jets, mostly Russian-made Su-24, Su-25, and MiG-29 aircraft.
- Israel’s air force is recognized for its advanced technology, precision, and maintenance capabilities.
Ground Forces
- Iran has a numerical advantage in ground forces, with nearly 1,996 tanks and over 6,798 pieces of artillery.
- Israel’s tanks, such as the Merkava series, are considered some of the most advanced in the world, with heavy armor and advanced targeting systems.
Naval Capabilities
- Israel has a more conventional navy, with a focus on protecting its coastline and ensuring the security of its sea lanes.
- Israel’s naval fleet includes 5 attack submarines, giving them strategic depth in maritime warfare, compared to Iran’s 1 submarine.
Technological Advancements
- Israel’s focus on technological advancement, especially in air defense and satellite intelligence, gives it a critical edge.
- Iran’s military strategy often hinges on asymmetric warfare, leveraging its alliances with regional proxy forces like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Ballistic Missiles and Nuclear Capabilities
Iran has a diverse arsenal of ballistic missiles, including the Tondar 69 and Khorramshahr, with ranges of up to 2,000km. Israel also possesses ballistic missiles, including the LORA and Jericho-3, with ranges of up to 6,500km. Regarding nuclear capabilities, Israel is estimated to have around 90 nuclear warheads, while Iran has an advanced nuclear program but is unlikely to have nuclear weapons. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has issued a fatwa banning the production of nuclear weapons, but Iran has threatened to change its nuclear doctrine if its existence is threatened