Israel has completed testing of its cutting-edge high-energy laser defense system, Iron Beam, marking a major milestone in modern military technology. The system, known in Hebrew as Or Eitan (“Eitan’s Light”), is set for deployment by the end of 2025 and promises to transform Israel’s air defense capabilities.
Unlike traditional missile-based defense systems, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars per interceptor, Iron Beam operates at a fraction of the cost. Each laser shot requires roughly $2 in electricity, offering a rapid, cost-effective solution to neutralize rockets, drones, and mortars.
Developed through a collaboration between Israel’s Ministry of Defense R&D Unit, the Israeli Air Force, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, and Elbit Systems, Iron Beam is designed to complement Israel’s existing multi-layered defense network, which includes the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow missile systems.
The high-energy laser system is capable of engaging short-range threats that missile interceptors often struggle to handle economically, particularly small rockets and swarming drones frequently used by militant groups. With its maximum effective range of approximately 10 kilometers, the system can defend cities, military bases, and critical infrastructure, firing continuously as long as power is available.
“Iron Beam represents the first fully operational high-power laser interception system in the world,” said Major General (res.) Amir Baram, Director-General of Israel’s Defense Ministry. “It provides rapid, precise defense at minimal cost, joining our existing systems to change the threat equation.”
The Iron Beam 450, the most advanced version of the system, features enhanced optics and extended range, while other variants, including mobile, maritime, and lightweight versions, allow flexible deployment across land, sea, and armored units. The system’s fiber laser technology tracks incoming threats and converges multiple beams on a single point, neutralizing targets in just a few seconds.
The announcement comes as Israel faces continued threats from multiple fronts, including militant groups in Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen. High-intensity attacks have previously involved thousands of projectiles in a single day, placing immense financial pressure on missile-based defense systems. Iron Beam offers a sustainable, efficient alternative capable of withstanding prolonged engagements.
Brigadier General Yehuda Elmakayes, head of Israel’s R&D Unit, described the system as “the dawn of widespread laser capabilities,” signaling a strategic shift toward directed-energy weapons in Israel’s military operations.
Looking to the future, Israel plans to further enhance laser power and range, with potential applications in airborne and even space-based missile defense systems. Collaborations with Lockheed Martin aim to develop next-generation lasers with up to 300 kilowatts of power, capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously.
The Iron Beam has already seen operational use in combat scenarios. In 2024, a lower-powered version successfully intercepted approximately 35 drones launched by Hezbollah, providing an early proof-of-concept for the technology.
With final trials completed, the first operational batteries will be delivered to the Israel Defense Forces by the end of 2025. The system is expected to protect Israeli cities, military installations, and naval assets, adding a transformative layer to the country’s defense network.
“By achieving full operational readiness, Israel is setting a new standard in modern defense technology,” said Rafael Chairman Yuval Steinitz. “Iron Beam is poised to change the landscape of warfare, combining speed, precision, and near-zero cost per engagement.”
As the world watches, Israel’s Iron Beam may well usher in a new era of cost-effective, high-tech defense — a laser-powered shield capable of reshaping military strategy in the 21st century.