Tel Aviv: Iron Beam laser system development has been completed and the first capability delivery to IDF is scheduled for December 30, 2025, according to Brig Gen (Res.) Dr Daniel Gold, head of the Israel Ministry of Defence (IMOD), Directorate of Defence Research & Development (DDR&D).
Dr Gold further added that the Iron Beam laser system is expected to fundamentally change the rules of engagement on the battlefield. ”With development complete and a comprehensive testing programme that has validated the system’s capabilities, we are prepared to deliver initial operational capability to the IDF on December 30, 2025. Simultaneously, we are already advancing the next-generation systems,” he said.
Israel’s laser-based Iron Beam air defence system could reduce the number of interceptors needed for close-range rocket defense by up to 20% compared to the currently used Iron Dome system.
The initial lessons from the ongoing war in Israel have accelerated the development efforts of the Israel Iron Beam – a laser based air defence system. The need in such a system was realised some years ago but the current war made the need more urgent. The thousands of rockets that have been launched by the Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon forced Israel to give a super high priority to the Iron Beam laser based air defence system.
The laser systems developed by Rafael will be integrated alongside the Iron Dome system, also developed by Rafael and operational since 2011. The control and command algorithms of the Iron Dome will determine when to activate the lasers and when to launch the Iron Dome’s kinetic interceptors, known as Tamir missiles, as well as which type of Tamir missile to launch. Some Tamir interceptors are equipped with special EO sensors , while others are guided by radar to their target.
Like the Iron Dome, the laser system is designed to intercept rockets, mortar shells, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and missiles. However, the laser system is intended to complement the Iron Dome rather than replace it. The Iron Dome generally succeeded in intercepting over 90% of the aerial threats launched from Gaza.
Defence Sources say that the initial systems will operate at a 100-150 kW beam that will go through a special “lens” that makes it more accurate and effective in burning targets.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
