Israeli defense officials revealed to the American newspaper, The New York Times, that Hezbollah has begun to rely on advanced missiles called “Almas,” which are copies of the Israeli “Spike” anti-tank missiles.

These missiles were part of the weapons captured by the party in the 2006 war between Israel and Lebanon, and were transferred to Iran where they were reverse engineered.

According to officials, Hezbollah designed the missiles to be more accurate and efficient than the Israeli version, and have the ability to target Israeli military bases, communications systems and air defense platforms with high accuracy.

Characteristics of "Almas" missiles

The "Almas" missiles are distinguished by advanced technological features that make them a real threat to Israel, such as:

The missiles have a high-precision guidance system, which enables them to hit their targets accurately, which makes them a major challenge to the Israeli military forces.

These missiles have a range of about 16 kilometers, giving them the ability to hit relatively distant targets.

Missiles have the ability to hit targets from above, where tanks and other targets are more vulnerable.

Reducing dependence on Iran

The newspaper believes that Hezbollah has begun manufacturing "Almas" missiles locally inside Lebanon in order to reduce dependence on the Iranian supply chain, because the party faces challenges in ensuring the continued flow of weapons from Iran in light of regional pressures and international sanctions.

Local manufacturing also gives Hezbollah greater independence in equipping its forces, and increases its ability to confront military threats from Israel.

A report from the Israeli Alma Research Institute indicates that Almas missiles will threaten a variety of strategic targets at longer distances, making them “an increasing threat, not only to Israel but to other countries in the region.”

Reports have shown that these missiles have already been used in operations against Israel as early as 2023, targeting some Israeli military installations, reflecting Hezbollah's improved ability to use advanced weapons in war.

Iran has produced and developed Almas missiles to counter growing military challenges from Israel, and began using these weapons in military exercises in 2021. These weapons are part of Iran’s broader strategy to enhance the capabilities of its allies, including Hezbollah in Lebanon.