Israel Unveils Iron Beam Laser, Becoming First Nation to Deploy Operational Air-Defence Lasers

Israel has taken a major step in military technology. The country has deployed its new Iron Beam laser air-defence system. It is the first nation to operate a high-power laser capable of intercepting aerial threats. The defence ministry confirmed the deployment on Sunday.

The system was handed over to the air force during a ceremony in northern Israel. It was developed by the defence ministry’s research unit and contractor Rafael. The project took more than a decade to complete. Officials said Iron Beam has reached full operational readiness. It has already carried out several successful interceptions.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said the achievement sends a strong message. He warned enemies not to test Israel’s capabilities. He said the system proves Israel’s technological advantage. Rafael chairman Yuval Steinitz also praised the deployment. He said Israel has set a global precedent. He noted that no other country has fielded an operational laser defence system.

Iron Beam is designed to work with existing air-defence systems. It will not replace them. Instead, it will support Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and the Arrow systems. Iron Dome targets short-range rockets. David’s Sling and Arrow intercept longer-range and ballistic missiles.

The laser system offers key advantages. It reacts instantly. It also costs far less per interception than missiles. As a result, it could reduce pressure on Israel’s defence budget. It may also improve response during heavy attacks.

The defence ministry announced earlier in December that Iron Beam was complete. Officials promised rapid deployment. The decision followed lessons from the June conflict with Iran. During the 12-day war, Israeli defences failed to stop all incoming missiles. Authorities later confirmed that more than 50 missiles hit Israeli territory. The strikes killed 28 people.

With Iron Beam now active, Israel aims to close gaps in its air defences. Officials say the system strengthens deterrence. They also say it marks a new phase in modern warfare.