New Delhi: As the Iran-Israel conflict escalates into its third week, two formidable weapons steal the spotlight, potentially tipping the scales in this high-stakes showdown. Iran’s elusive Sejil missile, dubbed the ‘Dancing Missile’ for its mid-flight path alterations, faces off against the United States’ B-1B Lancer bomber, a fire-spewing behemoth capable of unleashing unprecedented destruction.
Developed entirely by Iran, the Sejil is a medium-range ballistic missile powered by solid fuel, allowing swift launches and easy concealment. With a 2,000 km range and speeds up to 6,000 km/h, it can carry a 700 kg payload, including nuclear warheads. Its agility enables it to dodge Israel’s advanced Iron Dome and Arrow defences, making it a nightmare for adversaries. Iranian forces have already deployed several missiles in ‘Operation True Promise 4’, firing nearly 700 missiles and 3,600 drones at US and Israeli bases.
However, experts note Tehran’s more advanced arsenal remains in reserve.
On its part, the US has mobilised the B-1B Lancer, nicknamed ‘BONE’ for its pivotal role in the American arsenal. This supersonic bomber, operational since 1985, boasts a 34,000 kg payload capacity and can fly 9,400 km non-stop with mid-air refuelling. Cruising at Mach 1.2 and 40,000 feet, it has ravaged targets in Afghanistan, Syria, and Iraq. US Central Command shared footage of its deployment, signalling Washington’s intent to dismantle Iran’s military infrastructure.
The war rages on, with Israel extending its operations for three more weeks. “The Iran-Israel war will not last long,” an IDF spokesperson stated, adding that thousands of targets remain, aiming to cripple Iran’s missile programme. Recent strikes include Israeli missile assaults on Tehran’s IRGC bases, US Tomahawk launches from the USS John Finn, and Iranian counterattacks on American facilities in the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, and Bahrain, causing flight disruptions and chaos.