Hezbollah's growing arsenal escalates tensions with Israel

Hezbollah, the main Shiite armed organization in Lebanon, has been a critical player in the Middle East for years. Supported by Iran, the group possesses a broad arsenal that allows it to regularly conduct military operations against Israel.

Recently, the Lebanese Hezbollah launched an intense attack on Israel, hitting 11 military targets and firing over 320 Katyusha rockets. Israel responded with attacks on terrorist targets in Lebanon and declared a state of emergency for 48 hours. Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will firmly defend its territory. As a result of Israeli airstrikes, a key Hezbollah commander, Fuad Shukr, was killed, further heightening tensions in the region. So, what arsenal does Hezbollah possess?

Hezbollah has various types of drones that strike enemy territories, including northern Israel. These drones are primarily produced and supplied by Iran and used for reconnaissance and carrying small explosive payloads. This capability allows for precise attacks on selected targets.

An intriguing element of Hezbollah's arsenal is concrete rocket launchers. The organization has demonstrated how building materials can be surprisingly used for offensive purposes. Concrete rocket launchers of 4.8-inch caliber are just one example of innovative solutions. According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies analyses, Hezbollah has a militia of about 20,000 active members and a similar number of reservists. These launchers can bombard northern Israeli territories.

The high precision provided by these launchers makes them a serious threat to Israel. For example, concrete launchers have identical firepower despite their larger size and lower mobility compared to the popular BM-21 Grad in the region. A single salvo of 40 rockets in 20 seconds can cause massive destruction.

Hezbollah also possesses modern anti-aircraft and anti-tank equipment. With support from Iran, the organization has equipment such as portable QW-18 anti-aircraft systems capable of shooting down targets within a range of up to 3 miles and at an altitude of up to 2.5 miles. Anti-aircraft systems of this type use a dual-band seeker, significantly increasing their effectiveness.

Additionally, Hezbollah fighters have in their arsenal modern anti-tank guided missiles such as Toophan, Dehlavieh, and Kornet-E. These missiles can be effectively used against Israeli artillery and armored vehicles, significantly enhancing Hezbollah's combat capabilities and enabling it to conduct effective offensive operations.

Hezbollah also has an impressive array of artillery and rocket systems. The arsenal includes BM-21 Grad rocket launchers with a 4.8-inch caliber, capable of striking targets up to 12 miles away. Moreover, the group has more advanced systems like the BM-27 Uragan, which has an 8.7-inch caliber and can hit targets at a distance of up to 37 miles. Hezbollah also possesses various types of ballistic missiles, including Iranian Zelzal-1 and Zelzal-2, capable of attacking targets 78-130 miles away.

However, the most dangerous weapon in Hezbollah's arsenal is the Fateh-110 ballistic missile, which can reach a range of 186 miles and carry very precise warheads thanks to inertial and satellite navigation. The organization is also reported to have acquired SCUD launchers, capable of carrying payloads from 1,323 to 2,172 pounds and reaching a range of 186 to 342 miles. These weapon systems make Hezbollah a formidable opponent and potentially threaten regional stability.

Hezbollah constantly updates its military resources by introducing modern technologies. In recent years, the organization has acquired drone systems manufactured in Iran. These unmanned aerial vehicles, used in reconnaissance and combat operations, significantly increase Hezbollah's operational capabilities. These drones are not only difficult to detect but can also carry small explosive payloads, making them a dangerous offensive weapon.

Another technological advancement in Hezbollah's possession is the Bastion systems used to counter naval units. These advanced, Russian-origin missile systems have enormous offensive potential and can be used to attack significant enemy navy units. Hezbollah also possesses portable missile systems, allowing for flexible combat operations in various terrains.

The weaponry possessed by Hezbollah poses a significant threat to stability in the Middle East. Supported by Iran, Hezbollah has a diverse and expanding arsenal that allows it to conduct extensive military operations. This directly impacts the escalation of conflicts in the region, particularly in relations with Israel.

The situation could become even more dangerous without international intervention and sensible dialogue. Under the current conditions, Hezbollah's weaponry is a crucial element both militarily and politically in the Middle East. The organization has shown that it is prepared for various scenarios and possesses the means for prolonged conflict.