Since October 8, 2023, Iranian-backed militias in Lebanon and Yemen have demonstrated enhanced air-defense capabilities, which have impacted Israeli and U.S. military drone operations in the region. Hezbollah, operating from Lebanon, has downed five Israeli medium and high-altitude drones, while the Houthis in Yemen have shot down three U.S. MQ-9 Reapers. These developments suggest a potential shift in tactics and technology among these groups.
Experts are divided on whether this increase in drone shootdowns is due to new air defense systems provided by Iran or simply a result of increased operational activity by Israel and the U.S. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) suspect Hezbollah is behind a recent drone attack along the northern border. As Hezbollah and the Houthis continue their military operations, both claim solidarity with the Palestinian group Hamas amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Military analysts suggest that the U.S. and Israel may need to adjust their drone operations, exploring enhanced countermeasures and potentially deploying more advanced aircraft like the F-35 to mitigate the growing threat.
Notably, Hezbollah’s acquisition of advanced systems such as the Misagh-2, Khordad-15, and Sayyad-2 has been highlighted, potentially challenging the long-standing air dominance enjoyed by Israel and its allies in the region.