The United States launched an attack on Iran using Tomahawk missiles, causing damage to a nuclear site. This attack has heightened global tensions, and Iran’s response is now anticipated.
Tomahawk Missile: Recently, the United States and Israel conducted a joint military operation targeting Iran’s nuclear sites, with the United States utilizing its most potent weapon, the Tomahawk missile. This operation not only dealt a strategic blow to Iran but also reignited concerns about security on a global scale. Former U.S. President Donald Trump himself confirmed the attack, stating that Iran’s Fordo nuclear site had been completely devastated.
What is a Tomahawk Missile?
The Tomahawk missile, officially known as the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM), is a long-range cruise missile developed by the U.S. Navy. It’s specifically designed for precise strikes against strategic targets located on land. Tomahawks can be launched from submarines and warships and can obliterate targets thousands of kilometers away without a pilot.
Tomahawk’s Features
- Length: 18.3 feet
- Weight: 3,200 to 4,400 pounds (with booster)
- Warhead: 1,000-pound conventional explosive or cluster bomb
- Speed: 880 kilometers per hour (Mach 0.74)
- Range: 1,550 to 2,500 kilometers
- Accuracy: Equipped with GPS, inertial navigation, and terrain-mapping technology, enabling it to accurately hit targets within 10 meters.
How Was the Tomahawk Used in the Operation?
Reports indicate that U.S. Navy submarines launched approximately 30 Tomahawk missiles, from a distance of around 400 miles. These missiles also targeted two other sensitive strategic locations, heavily protected from attack. The Tomahawk’s capabilities are evident in the fact that the enemy had no opportunity to respond after the missile was launched.
U.S.-Israel Partnership
Donald Trump shared information about the campaign on Truth Social, describing it as an unprecedented ‘teamwork’ between the United States and Israel. He thanked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating, “We did what the world has never seen before. It was a decisive and messaging attack.”
What is the Global Impact?
This attack serves as a reminder that the United States still possesses weapons capable of dismantling any nation’s defense system. Through the use of the Tomahawk missile, the U.S. has demonstrated the sophistication of its military power and its ability to execute decisive attacks in any situation.
Tomahawk’s Historical Background
The Tomahawk missile saw its first major deployment during the 1991 Gulf War, when the United States launched it against Iraq. It was subsequently used in the 2003 Iraq War, 2011 in Libya, and 2018 in Syria. It remains one of the most reliable and accurate weapons in the U.S. arsenal.
Will Iran Respond?
Iran has yet to issue an official response to the attack, but experts believe that such action could further escalate tensions in West Asia. Iran has previously threatened to retaliate against the United States and Israel. It will be interesting to observe how regional geopolitical dynamics evolve in the coming days.
