The Iron Dome is an air-defense system designed to intercept incoming rockets.

But an equally important part of the system is knowing when not to engage.

When a rocket is detected, the Iron Dome does more than register that a threat is approaching. It calculates its trajectory and estimates where it is likely to land. If the rocket threatens a populated area or critical infrastructure, an interceptor can be launched. If it is expected to fall harmlessly in an open area, the system may allow it to fall.

That is not inaction. It is a calculated decision.

Interceptors are costly and finite. Launching one against every detected rocket would consume a scarce resource without necessarily changing the outcome. The system therefore has to decide which threats actually........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)