US Defense System Fails Against Iranian Drones in Syria, Prompting Investigation and Condemnation from Tehran.
A key air defense system, the Avenger, at a coalition base in Syria was reportedly not fully operational when a suspected Iranian drone attacked US forces on March 23, killing a US contractor and injuring several American soldiers. The conflict between the US and Iran-backed militias in Syria has escalated, with retaliatory attacks on coalition bases. The Avenger is a short-range air defense system meant to defend against drones, cruise missiles, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft. Its full operating capabilities are essential given the aerial threats that American forces are currently facing in Syria.