Israel deploys Iron Beam laser system, boosting IDF’s air defence network

Israel’s Defence Ministry has announced the delivery of the first operational high-power laser interception system, known as Iron Beam, developed by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, to the Israel Defence Forces.

Following extensive testing in which it successfully intercepted rockets, mortar shells, and drones, the system will be absorbed by the Israeli Air Force and integrated into Israel’s multi-layered air defence network alongside Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and the Arrow systems, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Describing the handover as a “historic occasion,” Defence Minister Israel Katz said Iron Beam marks the first time globally that a high-power laser interception system has reached full operational maturity. 

He added that the system “changes the rules of the game” and delivers a clear deterrent message to Israel’s adversaries.

Defence Ministry Director General Amir Baram noted that the delivery represents the shift from development to serial production. 

He described Iron Beam as the opening stage of a broader technological transformation, emphasising that it is expected to significantly enhance Israel’s defensive capabilities while improving the cost balance between incoming threats and traditionally expensive interceptor systems.

The Iron Beam system is primarily designed to intercept very short-range rockets, as well as mortar and artillery shells, using a laser beam. Plans to modernise Israel’s missile defence system were first outlined in 2022 by then-Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who proposed creating a defensive “laser wall” that could replace large numbers of interceptor missiles and serve as a more cost-effective alternative to traditional air defence systems.

By Jeyhun Aghazada