|
Trending Topics
|
Source: http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htlog/articles/20091013.aspx
Hamas Attempts to Smuggle Longer-Range Rockets into Gaza
[Strategy Page] Iran is apparently concentrating on smuggling longer-range rockets into Gaza, like their Fajr-5. This rocket is as big as a telephone poll, has a range of 75 km., and could reach Tel Aviv and most of central Israel. But the Fajr-5 can be moved through the smuggling tunnels to Gaza only if broken down into 8-10 sections and then reassembled on the other end. The Fajr-5 carries a 200-pound warhead and is only effective if aimed at a large urban area. That means that the most likely victims will be civilians. Israel would certainly go into Gaza if a Fajr ever landed in Tel Aviv. Firing a few Fajr-5s into Israel, and then getting blasted by Israel, gives one pause. But Iran is supplying Hamas with much of the cash that keeps the organization alive. So Hamas is trying to replace the 2,000 rockets it lost in the recent war (including 1,400 destroyed on the ground). Iran is also smuggling in anti-aircraft missiles (like the SA-7/18 types), to be used against Israeli helicopters. These are easier to get through the tunnels, but the Israelis have equipped their helicopters and low flying fighters with countermeasures.