Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system is figuring
prominently in the unfolding aerial conflict with Hamas'
military wing in Gaza. Iron Dome is being credited with
protecting Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities by blocking some of
the rockets fired from Gaza. Over the past three days, 737
rockets from Gaza were fired upon Israel: 492 landed, but 245
were intercepted by the system, Israel Defense Forces said
Saturday. What is it? The name Iron Dome evokes an image of a
protective bubble over a city. In practice, Iron Dome is a
defense against short-range rockets and mortar shells: the
system targets incoming rockets and fires an interceptor missile
to destroy them midair. Each battery has a firing-control radar
to identify targets and a portable missile launcher. The system
is easily transportable, with just a few hours needed to
relocate and set up. The missile is highly maneuverable. It is
three meters, or almost 10 feet, long; has a diameter of about
six inches; and weighs 90 kilograms, or 198 pounds, acco