It is incredible to think about how far Israel has advanced since its rebirth as a nation in 1948, especially in the realm of innovation. The nation’s latest leap in defense capabilities is nothing less than extraordinary. The advancement I am referring to is Israel’s “Iron Beam,” a high-powered laser weapon system.
Jewish News Syndicate (JNS) reported:
Israel’s Iron Beam (“Magen Or” in Hebrew) laser defense system will begin defending against aerial threats at the end of the month, the country’s Defense Ministry announced on Monday.
“With development complete and a comprehensive testing program that has validated the system’s capabilities, we are prepared to deliver initial operational capability to the IDF on Dec. 30, 2025,” said Brig. Gen. (res.) Daniel Gold, head of the Directorate of Defense Research and Development at the Defense Ministry.
Speaking at the International DefenseTech Summit at Tel Aviv University, Gold said the system was a complement to the Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow air defense systems, and “is expected to fundamentally change the rules of engagement on the battlefield.”
The system uses a 100-kilowatt laser to intercept rockets, mortars and UAVs at a range of more than 6 miles (10 kilometers), at a fraction of the cost of traditional interceptors. The estimated cost per firing is about $2 to $5, compared to $40,000 to $80,000 for a single Iron Dome interceptor.
This is truly a game-changer. UAVs—a great many of which are in Iran’s possession—pose a significant threat to Israel, largely because they are extremely difficult to intercept with previous defense systems. With this new laser beam technology, that challenge has finally met its match. And when you consider the low operating cost, it’s certainly a welcome addition to Israel’s defense budget.
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