Dr. Uzi Rubin, a leading Israeli missile defense expert, warned that ballistic missiles carrying cluster warheads must be intercepted before the payload disperses its submunitions. Once the warhead opens and releases dozens of smaller bomblets, it is no longer a single target, sharply reducing the chances of preventing damage. He stressed that interception must occur high above the ground and well before the missile reaches its target area.

Cluster warheads differ from conventional warheads by spreading many small explosives over a wide area instead of delivering one concentrated blast. According to Rubin, Iranian ballistic missiles can be equipped with either type of warhead, with cluster payloads typically carrying between 20 and 80 bomblets. These submunitions are designed to endanger exposed troops and unprotected facilities, while unitary warheads focus destructive force on a single point.

Rubin explained that cluster warheads usually disperse at relatively low altitudes, around seven kilometers, whereas missile defense systems aim to intercept threats at much higher altitudes. He noted that systems designed for short range rockets are not intended to counter long range ballistic missiles. Ultimately, he said, cluster warheads do not fundamentally change missile defense strategy: the key is destroying the missile early, because once it descends too low or releases its payload, it is too late to stop the full impact.