World’s first 100kW Iron Beam laser enters combat service

Israel has received its world’s first 100-kilowatt Iron Beam system, aiming to boost its military capabilities and defence technologies.

Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the high-power and “combat-ready” laser system has been deployed by Israel Defence Forces, aiming to counter foreign drones and rockets at a cost lower than conventional interceptors.

The next-gen system will also be integrated into Israel’s multilayer air-defence system along with the Iron Dome, Arrow missile systems, and David’s Sling.

According to Defence Minister Israel Katz, the recent delivery will be marked as a historic moment as it is the first time a high-power laser interception system has reached operational efficiency and maturity.

The system is also meant to revolutionize warfare by bringing a paradigm shift to expensive missile interceptors.

At the heart of its efficacy lies its low cost as the laser system works on low electricity consumption worth only a few cents. On the contrary, traditional interceptor missiles can cost between $10,000 and $100,000 for each shot.

As reported by the ministry, the Iron Beam reached the working maturity after weeks of testing and is capable of intercepting the missiles and drones.

Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram said the laser system indicates a new era characterized by a broader technological shift in air defence.

Israel’s air defence system is considered one of the strongest one in the world on the grounds of interception rates of 90 to 95 percent. Unfortunately, in the past it faced difficulties in targeting low-altitude objects and drones. An Iron beam is expected to plug this gap.

First announced in 2014, the deployment of Iron Beam took more than a decade after weeks of testing.