Israel advances next generation laser defenses
Israel is moving forward with the development of a new high power laser interception system designed for both ground and airborne use, according to Defense Ministry research chief Daniel Gold.
Officials say the Iron Beam system has now been delivered to the Israeli military for integration into the countrys multi layered missile defense architecture.
Engineers from Elbit Systems and Rafael created Iron Beam to operate alongside Iron Dome, Davids Sling and Arrow, forming a broader protective network against a wide spectrum of threats.
The Defense Ministry reports that the laser can intercept rockets, mortars, aircraft and drones at far lower cost than conventional missile based platforms.
US assessments indicate that neutralizing a single drone with a laser amounts to roughly 4 dollars, a figure that contrasts sharply with the much higher expense of traditional interceptors.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the innovation during a visit to Rafael as a fundamental shift in the nature of both offensive and defensive warfare.
Gold, who played a central role in the creation of Iron Dome, confirmed that work is already underway on an even stronger airborne laser capable of countering a wider range of incoming threats.
Developers aim to equip different types of aircraft with this enhanced system so they can operate above the clouds and intercept missiles and drones targeting Israel.
