Ballistic missiles reshape warfare as Iran, Ukraine conflicts fuel global arms race

Ballistic missiles remain among the most effective and dangerous weapons in modern conflicts, despite rapid drone development. Mass deployment of these long‑range rockets in the Iran‑Israel and Russia‑Ukraine wars has exposed the limits of current air‑defence systems and the high cost of interceptors.

The surge in use has triggered a new wave of armament across Europe, Asia and North America, with governments increasing spending on both offensive and defensive missile technologies. Defence manufacturers stand to benefit as they become prime recipients of rising military budgets. The shortage of PAC‑3 interceptors, made by Lockheed Martin, has particularly hampered Ukraine’s ability to repel Russian strikes.

Analysts note that the enduring capability of missiles with ranges over 1,000 km forces even nations with modest forces to threaten stronger opponents, prompting the United States to reassess force deployments and logistics. The revival of long‑range ballistic weapons follows the lapse of the INF Treaty that once limited rockets of 500‑5,500 km range.