Iron Beam: Israel's 'new era of warfare' defence system to use high-power lasers

Israel 's advanced " Iron Beam " laser defense system is anticipated to be operational in the next year strengthening its defense system, reports CNN citing Israel’s defense ministry. Israel invested over $500 million this week in contracts with domestic defense companies Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems to enhance the shield's production.

The Iron Beam, developed alongside the Iron Dome, is designed to neutralize various aerial threats including missiles, drones, rockets, and mortars, according to Israel's defense ministry.

Israeli officials have claimed that the development will bring a "a new era of warfare" as the nation confronts drone and missile threats from Iran and its allies.

"It heralds the beginning of a new era in warfare. The initial capability of the ground-based laser system… is expected to enter operational service within one year," said Eyal Zamir, director general of the defense ministry, in a recent announcement.

The system's prototype was first shown in 2021, and development has continued steadily since then.
These developments occur as Israel maintains military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, following recent direct missile exchanges with Iran.

Military analysts indicate that the Iron Beam could strengthen Israel's defensive capabilities while potentially reducing operational costs.

How does 'Iron Beam' work?
A ground-based high-power laser system operates by targeting and heating vulnerable components of projectiles, such as engines or warheads, from distances ranging from hundreds of meters to several kilometers until they fail.

This approach differs with Israel's current missile defense strategy, which relies on radar detection followed by launching interceptor missiles to neutralize incoming threats in the air.

Defense experts indicate that a laser-based defense system would provide superior performance to the Iron Dome while being more cost-effective and responsive.

According to Yehoshua Kalisky from the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv, each Iron Dome interception requires two missiles, with individual missiles costing approximately $50,000 or more.

The ongoing conflict with Israel's northern neighbor has necessitated frequent interceptions. The IDF reported that on Tuesday alone, approximately 50 projectiles entered Israeli territory from southern Lebanon, with only partial interception success.

The company developing Iron Beam, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, said that laser interceptions have "almost zero cost per interception."

Experts indicate that the laser system would particularly excel at countering drones, which have proven challenging for the Iron Dome to intercept.

While the Iron Dome effectively counters rockets and missiles, it struggles with drones due to their small size, light weight, and minimal radar signature. Unlike missiles, drones can alter their flight paths and are harder for radar systems to detect.

However, weather conditions pose significant limitations for the Iron Beam, as clouds, rain, and haze reduce its atmospheric penetration and target acquisition capabilities. The system also requires substantial power resources for operation.

Various nations have developed different laser defense systems. The US Navy has tested high-powered lasers capable of destroying aircraft, while the UK has introduced DragonFire for aerial defense. According to the Pentagon, both China and Russia are working on satellite-targeting laser technology.

Iran's status regarding indigenous laser defense systems remains uncertain. In 2022, Iranian state media reported the country's claimed ability to "manufacture laser weapons to defend sensitive regions."

Reports suggest Iran may possess the Chinese-manufactured "Silent Hunter" laser weapon, though experts indicate it's less powerful than the planned Iron Beam system. The Israeli system faces several technical challenges.