Britain faces a mere 20-minute warning window if Iran successfully launches a missile capable of reaching the UK, as cautioned by Israel. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) recently raised concerns that Iran’s missile capabilities could target major European cities like London, Paris, and Berlin without prior consultation with international allies.
This alert has brought attention to the UK’s missile defense readiness, with experts expressing doubts about the country’s ability to intercept such missiles due to its limited warning systems. In the event of an Iranian missile threat, intelligence satellites would first detect the approaching warhead, prompting senior security officials to quickly convene in the secure bunker beneath the Ministry of Defence known as Pindar.
Iran’s advanced warhead, the Khorramshahr-4, capable of speeds up to mach 10, could cover the distance from Tehran to London in approximately 20 minutes. Despite the recent deployment of such missiles by Iran towards Diego Garcia, experts believe the likelihood of a successful strike on the UK or other European targets is low.
Analysts suggest that any missile targeting the UK would need to be lightweight and swift, requiring a smaller payload. A worst-case scenario described by Dr. Sidharth Kaushal of the Royal United Services Institute involves a payload weighing between 450 to 550kg, which could potentially cause significant damage to a building upon impact. However, the missile’s trajectory over western Europe and numerous air defense networks presents logistical challenges for successful targeting.
While the Government disputes Iran’s capability to strike the UK, citing the country’s military preparedness, concerns remain about the potential threats posed by Iran’s missile technology. The UK is bolstered by its own defense assets, including Type 45 destroyers, and is further protected by NATO’s Ballistic Missile Defense system designed to counter intercontinental ballistic missiles.