Israel to fully implement revolutionary Iron Beam laser system

Israel is set to fully operationalize its Iron Beam system on December 30, introducing a high-speed laser platform capable of intercepting drones, rockets, missiles, and mortars. Dani Gold, head of research and analysis at the Defense Ministry, confirmed on Monday that this revolutionary defense system will be deployed in the field later this month.

In September, the Defense Ministry declared that Iron Beam was already functional and that a series of batteries would be distributed nationwide to enhance Israels air defense capabilities. Earlier in June, the ministry, along with RafaelIsraels leading defense tech companyand partners including Elbit, announced that a smaller system called Lite Beam, a precursor to Iron Beam, was operational. Reports at the time noted that Israeli laser systems had successfully intercepted roughly 40 Hezbollah drones in October 2024.

Monday's announcement marks the final step in the system's rollout. Security officials highlighted that the full Iron Beam system can handle multiple simultaneous threats, not just single targets. Compared to Lite Beam, Iron Beam offers higher power, longer range, and broader defense coverage. It can target not only drones but also missiles, rockets, and mortars, making it a formidable addition to Israels defensive network.

The nationwide deployment means that Iron Beam batteries will be produced and strategically positioned across the country, rather than concentrated in just a few locations. Officials anticipate that the system will immediately reduce the financial burden of intercepting airborne threats, which has been a significant issue amid the ongoing multi-front conflict, where tens of thousands of projectiles have been launched at Israel.

While Arrow interceptors can cost millions of shekels and Iron Dome interceptors tens of thousands, firing Iron Beam is reported to be as inexpensive as turning on a light. Defense Ministry Director-General Amir Baram has emphasized that the Iron Beam will set a precedent for future battlefield laser platforms worldwide.

Brig.-Gen. Yehuda Elmakayes, head of the directorates R&D Division, noted that the Knesset approved funding two years ago to ensure sufficient Laser Dome batteries for this stage of deployment. In an exclusive interview, IDF reservist M. Sgt. "A," who operates the system in northern Israel, described the experience as incredible and explained that operators had to learn real-time field operation alongside industry developers to improve interception success.

Although countries like the US, UK, Russia, China, Germany, and Japan are developing laser defense systems, the Defense Ministry stated that Iron Beam is currently the only system operational in real combat. Laser systems such as Iron Beam, Iron Beam M, and Lite Beam can intercept rockets and drones early in their trajectory, potentially eliminating the need for Israelis to seek shelter in most scenarios. The speed of the laser allows for rapid correction if the initial strike misses, improving overall success rates.

The three laser systems differ in power and mobility. Lite Beam, the smallest, provides short-range protection and can be mounted on individual vehicles with a 10-kilowatt beam. Iron Beam M fires a 50-kilowatt beam from large trucks and can operate while moving. The full-scale Iron Beam delivers a 100-kilowatt beam, is designed to remain stationary for extended periods, and can be relocated strategically as needed, similar to Iron Dome batteries.

Author: Sophia Brooks