Israel’s Defense Ministry on Wednesday said it completed the development of a powerful laser weapon that will become operational by the end of the year to bolster the country’s multi-level air defenses.
The 100-kilowatt Iron Beam laser, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems Ltd., successfully intercepted drones, rockets, mortars and aircraft in a series of tests in southern Israel, according to a ministry statement. It will be integrated into the Iron Dome missile defense shield in the coming months, offering another layer of protection.