Overview
- The Defense Ministry handed Iron Beam to the Israeli Air Force at a northern ceremony, with Defense Minister Israel Katz declaring full operational status and issuing a warning to adversaries.
- Officials say testing demonstrated reliable interceptions of rockets, mortar rounds, and drones, marking what Katz called the first time a high-energy laser defense reached full readiness.
- Reported engagement costs are far lower than missile interceptors, with U.S. figures citing about four dollars to down a drone and a Rafael executive claiming only a few cents per shot.
- The laser system adds a new layer to Israel’s multi-tier air defenses alongside Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow.
- Defense leaders say production is ramping up as work proceeds on a more powerful version and a program exploring future installation on aircraft, though real-world performance will be proven in service.