Even after the successful interception by the Iron Dome system of a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip last Friday, the soldiers of the Israel Air Force’s Aerial Defense Network continue to be prepared and ready.
The battery that protects the Ashdod area continues to be on full alert for the firing of more missiles, after a weekend during which almost 20 rockets were fired toward Israel from Gaza.
The Ashdod battery was quickly integrated into operational activities and on Friday afternoon shot down a rocket above Kiryat Malachi.
“Since the recent IDF operations in Gaza, we have been on elevated alert, due to the high probability of the firing of rockets at Israel,” said Captain Elad Tzinmon, commander of the battery. “We are always ready for an attack from Gaza, but when the terrorist organizations receive a heavy blow from the IDF, our preparedness increases, as we know that they won’t sit quietly.”
The Iron Dome system has become popular amongst the recruits to the Aerial Defense Network.
“I originally enlisted in the Patriot [missile system], because it touches me both as an Israeli and personally – I have family in the south,” said Sergeant Yoav, the soldier who intercepted the rocket.
‘The successful interception filled me with pride,” he continued. “This is why I enlisted, to engage in operational activities and bring benefit to the IDF. During the interception, when I pressed the button, I thought about my family, and when I left all my friends jumped on me with joy. I’m already waiting for the next interception.”
