Israel Says It’s Developed Laser Weapon to Stop Missiles, Drones
Iron Beam Laser Weapon System, right, on the Rafael stand in the Israeli pavilion at the Paris Air Show on June 17.
Photographer: Thibault Camus/AP PhotoIsrael’s Defense Ministry on Wednesday said it completed the development of a powerful laser weapon that will become operational by the end of the year to bolster the country’s multi-level air defenses.
The 100-kilowatt Iron Beam laser, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems Ltd., successfully intercepted drones, rockets, mortars and aircraft in a series of tests in southern Israel, according to a ministry statement. It will be integrated into the Iron Dome missile defense shield in the coming months, offering another layer of protection.