Israel Iron Beam Defense System: Israel is preparing to deploy its latest laser-based defense system, the Iron Beam, developed at a cost of $50 million to intercept missiles and projectiles from hundreds of meters up to several kilometers away. This advanced technology, expected to be operational within a year, marks a significant milestone in Israels defense strategy.Iron Beam is a game-changer for Israels defenseAmid rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly with Iran, Israel has fast-tracked the development of the Iron Beam system. The move follows Israels October 26 missile strikes targeting military sites in Tehran. Officials describe the new system as the start of a new era in warfare, as Israel bolsters its defenses in coordination with regional allies. This week, Israel allocated $500 million towards production agreements with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems to accelerate the Iron Beams deployment. The laser-powered system, designed to neutralize missiles, drones, and rockets, is viewed as a complementary layer to Israels existing Iron Dome.This truly marks a new era of warfare, said Eyal Zamir, Israels defense ministry director general. Initial ground-based laser system capabilities are expected within a year. A prototype of the Iron Beam was first introduced in 2021 and has since been refined for operational use.How do the Iron Beam worksThe Iron Beam system is a ground-based, high-powered laser that locks onto its target, heating critical areas like engines or warheads until they are neutralized. This laser-based approach differs from Israels Iron Dome, which relies on radar and interceptor missiles. Experts highlight that the laser system is faster, less costly, and more efficient. The Iron Domes interceptor missiles cost around $50,000 each and often require two per threat, while Iron Beam interceptions cost near zero, says Yehoshua Kalisky, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS).According to Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Iron Beams affordability and precision make it especially effective against drones, which Israels current systems struggle to detect due to their small size and low radar signature. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett noted in 2022 that each Iron Beam interception could cost as little as $2.,🇮🇱#Israeli defence ministry announced that the Iron Beam laser interception system is expected to be operational very soon. Its a #innovateforthefuture advancement with Rafael and Elbit a deal of 💲535 millions.Now more invincible and deadly air defence on the way 🇮🇱🚀💪… pic.twitter.com/3jEfk4U0FN— Dr.Manoj Pandey (@mpandey03) October 28, 2024Rising threats in the regionIsraels move comes amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, with frequent missile exchanges between Israel and Iran-aligned groups. Israels confrontations with Iran-backed forces in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, part of the Axis of Resistance, underscore the urgent need for a cost-effective defense solution like Iron Beam.
