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3w ago

Israel Says Iron Beam Laser Defense Clears Final Tests for Deployment This Year

Officials say the high‑power laser will join Israel's air‑defense network by year‑end to reduce per‑shot costs.

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The Iron Beam 450 beam director is designed to deliver over 100 kW of laser energy over 10 km, focusing its energy on a coin-sized target. Image: IMOD
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Overview

  • Israel’s Defense Ministry says a multi‑week trial in southern Israel validated interceptions of rockets, mortars, aircraft and drones using a full operational setup.
  • The first systems are slated to be integrated into the IDF’s multi‑layered air defenses by year‑end to complement Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow.
  • Development is led by the ministry’s DDR&D with Rafael as prime using adaptive optics and Elbit providing the laser source, with the Israeli Air Force as a partner.
  • Officials cite near‑zero marginal shot cost versus interceptor missiles that media estimate at about $50,000, with engagements at roughly 10 km completed in seconds.
  • Ministry leaders describe it as the first high‑power laser interceptor to reach full operational maturity, noting prototypes have already downed dozens of threats in combat.