Technological advances lower ballistic missile costs
As wsj.com reported from Manama, Bahrain, improvements in technology that have rendered ballistic missiles cheaper and more accurate have enabled the Houthis of Yemen and Iran to attack adversaries throughout the Middle East.
The proliferation and evolution of these armaments, previously held exclusively by nuclear-armed nations, indicate that global military strategies must undergo rapid and significant revisions. Along with the drone revolution unfolding in Ukraine, this transformation has strategic implications worldwide.
Key military and infrastructure assets are becoming increasingly vulnerable, including for the U.S. military posture in Europe and Asia.
Redefining the deep battle space
Advances in ballistic missiles allow nonstate actors to strike targets at long distances.
“Even nonstate actors are able to operate at significant ranges, redefining what the deep battle space is,” said Martin Sampson, a retired British Air Marshal currently leading the Middle East division of the International Institute for Strategic Studies.
Defenses against these missiles have yet to catch up with the transformation.
“Everything that is fixed is a target now,” Sampson said.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is using cheaper ballistic missiles in the Middle East?
Iran and the Houthis of Yemen are using these weapons to strike foes across the region, according to wsj.com.
What global impact are these weapons having?
The weapons and the drone revolution in Ukraine have strategic implications worldwide, affecting the U.S. military posture in Europe and Asia as key assets become vulnerable.
Who analyzed the impact on military doctrines?
Retired British Air Marshal Martin Sampson, head of the Middle East office of the International Institute for Strategic Studies, discussed the changes with wsj.com.
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