– Israel is developing a laser weapon system called Iron Beam to complement its existing aerial defense networks like Iron Dome.
– Iron Beam uses high-energy laser beams to intercept and destroy threats from missiles, rockets, drones, etc. up to 4.3 miles away. It has an unlimited magazine since it uses laser beams instead of interceptor missiles.
– A $1.2 billion US aid package will help fund Iron Beam’s deployment. It passed initial tests in 2022 and is planned to be operational within a few years.
– Iron Beam could provide an almost invincible defensive shield for Israel since lasers have negligible intercept costs and won’t run out of “ammunition”.
– If successful, Iron Beam would demonstrate laser defense technology and help the US and allies develop similar systems to protect bases, ships, and countries against threats. Israel’s regular use of Iron Beam would provide valuable real-world performance data.
– While laser weapon programs have struggled previously, advances in technologies and Israel’s deployment are seen as making Iron Beam more likely to succeed where others failed.
Source: Popular Mechanics
