(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Gradually, the Iranian-backed Hezbollah armed group in southern Lebanon has demonstrated the meticulous preparations made by its members to confront the Israeli military in the event of a war.
Hezbollah has released a short video showcasing a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) concealed underground.
In the video, viewers can observe how the MLRS is activated, brought to the surface, and then lowered back underground to avoid detection by enemies.
The MLRS, fully camouflaged, features six launchers, with its top covered by about 50 cm of soil to further obscure its location.
It is evident that Hezbollah not only has underground MLRS launchers but also likely houses various other weapon systems underground to evade Israeli detection.
Analysts with insider knowledge of Hezbollah’s capabilities state that the Iranian-backed group possesses hundreds of thousands of rockets accumulated since their last war with Israel in 2006.
Speculations abound regarding the number of Hezbollah’s rocket launchers hidden underground.
What is certain is that Hezbollah has been preparing for a confrontation with Israel since their last conflict in 2006.
If Israel launches a surprise attack on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, it is likely that many of Hezbollah’s underground weapon systems will remain undetected.
According to analysts, concealing weapon systems underground offers several advantages.
However, they also point out the drawbacks of this strategy, such as making the systems static and immobile.
Although current technology does not allow for the detection of underground structures, the Israeli Air Force is believed to possess bunker buster bombs capable of destroying subterranean structures, even those located tens of meters underground.
The Israeli military has previously expressed its readiness to launch an attack on Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, even without support from its main ally, the United States.
Media reports suggest that the Israeli military offensive is expected to begin in mid-month, following the deployment of its troops and assets along the border between the two countries.
Low-intensity conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing since October last year, shortly after Palestinian fighters attacked Israeli military positions, sparking the latest conflict.
Hezbollah has launched thousands of rockets, anti-tank missiles, and suicide drones against Israeli military positions, particularly along the border.
For analysts, Hezbollah’s current attacks represent less than 10 percent of the group’s capabilities.
The true extent of the Iranian-backed group’s power will only be revealed if Israel launches a major offensive against Hezbollah. — DSA