Israel vs Iran: Who's Stronger? Analyzing Military, Air Force, and Naval Strength

As the Middle East watches the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict closely, it’s essential to understand how these two nations stack up militarily. Both Israel and Iran have significant military forces, each with their strengths and weaknesses in land, air, and naval capabilities. This analysis breaks down their forces and sheds light on recent developments in the region, including missile strikes and defence responses.

Israel vs Iran: Military Forces

~Source: Global Firepower Index 2024

In terms of active personnel, Israel has a total of 170,000 troops, bolstered by 465,000 reservists and 35,000 paramilitary forces. Despite being smaller in size, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are highly trained and technologically advanced, with a focus on rapid deployment and precision.

On the other hand, Iran boasts a significantly larger military, with 610,000 active personnel, 350,000 reservists, and a paramilitary force of 220,000, primarily composed of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iran’s military strength lies in its numbers, though it often faces challenges related to outdated equipment and technological gaps when compared to Israel.

Israel vs Iran: Air Force

~Source: Global Firepower Index 2024

Air superiority is a critical factor in any military conflict, and Israel has the advantage here with its advanced aerial capabilities. The Israeli Air Force operates 612 aircraft, including 241 highly advanced fighter jets. Additionally, Israel has 146 helicopters, 48 of which are classified as attack helicopters, providing both offensive and defensive capabilities. A key advantage for Israel is its fleet of 23 special-mission aircraft, enhancing its operational flexibility through surveillance and reconnaissance.

Iran’s air force, while numerically strong with 551 aircraft, falls behind in terms of modernization. Its air force includes 186 fighter jets and 129 helicopters, of which only 13 are attack helicopters. Iran's air fleet is older and less technologically sophisticated than Israel’s, but it still plays a crucial role in Iran’s defensive strategies, particularly when combined with its missile capabilities.

Israel vs Iran: Land Forces

~Source: Global Firepower Index 2024

When it comes to ground forces, Iran has an edge in numbers, operating 1,996 tanks compared to Israel’s 1,370. Iran also maintains a vast fleet of 65,765 armoured vehicles, surpassing Israel’s 43,407. However, Israel’s ground forces are more modernized, including 650 self-propelled artillery units, while Iran has 580. Israel also possesses 150 rocket artillery systems, which provide a critical advantage in launching precision strikes.

Despite the numerical disparity in tanks and armoured vehicles, Israel’s superior technology and effective integration of artillery units make its land forces more agile and responsive in combat.

Israel vs Iran: Naval Strength

~Source: Global Firepower Index 2024

Israel’s navy, though small, is highly capable. The country operates five submarines, seven corvettes, and 45 patrol vessels, with its submarines playing a key role in strategic defence. The Israeli Navy is focused on protecting the country’s coastal waters and ensuring maritime security in the Mediterranean.

In comparison, Iran’s navy is larger and more diverse, with seven frigates, three submarines, 19 patrol vessels, and one mine warfare vessel. Iran’s naval strategy revolves around controlling the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The Iranian navy also incorporates elements of asymmetrical warfare, such as the use of fast attack boats and anti-ship missiles, making it a formidable force in regional waters.

Israel vs Iran: Missile Capabilities

Missiles are a central aspect of both countries' defence strategies. Israel’s Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow missile defence systems are among the most advanced in the world, capable of intercepting a wide range of incoming projectiles. Israel also maintains a significant stockpile of long-range missiles that can target key Iranian locations if needed.

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Iran, known for its expansive missile program, possesses a wide array of short- and medium-range missiles. The recent missile strike on Israel, involving over 180 ballistic missiles, highlights Iran’s ability to launch coordinated attacks. Despite Israel’s robust missile defence systems, Iran’s growing missile capabilities remain a critical threat.