Israel is seeking to develop a new high-powered laser interception system so it can install it on aircraft in addition to deploying it on the ground, one of the manufacturers said today.
“We are already in the next generation,” Daniel Gold, the Defense Department’s chief of defense research and development, told broadcaster Kan.
The Israeli military on Sunday took delivery of the high-powered laser interception system known as Iron Beam, which will be integrated into its existing multi-layered missile shields.
The laser system was developed by Israeli defense companies Elbit Systems and Rafael, according to the Defense Ministry.
The Iron Beam is designed to work alongside the Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow defense systems.
Tests have shown the system can reliably intercept missiles, mortar shells, aircraft and drones, the ministry said, adding that it is significantly cheaper to operate than conventional missile-based systems.
According to US estimates, the laser weapon can neutralize drones at a cost of about $4 per interception, compared to the much higher cost of Israel’s existing missile defense systems.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog, during a visit to the Rafael defense company, said the system heralded a “fundamental change in the world of warfare – both defensive and offensive.”
Gold, who is also credited as the architect of Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, said work is already underway to develop an even more powerful laser that will be able to deal with an even wider range of threats.
He said the plan was to allow aircraft of various sizes to fly above the clouds and shoot down missiles and drones fired at Israel.
