Israel missile defense test a 'success'

JERUSALEM, April 7 (UPI) -- Israeli military authorities said Tuesday they successfully tested the Arrow 2 ballistic missile defense system.

A test in southern Israel shot down a simulated incoming Iranian Shihab 3 missile, The Jerusalem Post reported.

It was the 18th test for the Arrow 2 and the first since it was modified and used in conjunction with a new radar system, officials said. The test was reportedly carried out by the Israeli air force and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency.

The Post said Israeli defense officials hailed the launching as "another indication of Israel's defense capabilities in the face of Iran's continued quest for a nuclear weapon."

The officials asserted that the Arrow system is capable of protecting Israel from all missiles in Iran's arsenal.