Rafael Advanced Defense Systems showcases its armored personnel carrier-mounted Lite Beam High Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS). (Credit: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems).
Israeli defense firm reveals upgraded and mobile laser weapons, including Iron Beam 450, as part of its next-gen air defense technology.
By David Brummer, World Israel News
Israeli defense company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has introduced a suite of next-generation laser-based air defense systems ahead of the Paris Air Show later this month, according to Globes.
The centerpiece is the upgraded Iron Beam 450, which features a 450-millimeter aperture beam director—an improvement over the previous 250 mm model—boosting the system’s range, precision, and efficiency.
Iron Beam is the world’s only operational system delivering laser power at 100 kilowatts.
This allows it to intercept short-range threats like rockets and drones at a distance of about 10 kilometers, using a single, highly focused beam.
While weather conditions such as clouds can hinder performance, the cost advantage is dramatic: $5–$10 per interception compared to $30,000 for an Iron Dome missile.
The two systems are designed to work in tandem.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense recently disclosed that Iron Beam has already been used in combat, with over 40 successful interceptions in northern Israel.
The new 450 mm version is intended for fixed installations near borders and strategic sites.
Rafael is also unveiling two mobile variants: Iron Beam M, mounted on a heavy-duty truck, and Lite Beam, designed for lighter vehicles such as 4x4s or armored personnel carriers.
Iron Beam M uses a 250 mm aperture with 50 kW power, offering rapid deployment and protection for maneuvering forces.
Lite Beam, with 10 kW power, is optimized for tactical mobility and drone defense.
These systems can be integrated with Rafael’s Trophy active protection system, which defends against anti-tank missiles and has seen extensive use on Israeli tanks and APCs. Trophy has maintained interception rates above 90%, even amid unprecedented missile attacks in recent conflicts.
Rafael says it is continuing research to expand Iron Beam’s range and refine performance.
CEO Yoav Tourgeman called the laser system a “battlefield revolution,” noting its low cost, unlimited firing capacity, and shift in strategic economics in favor of the defender.
Meanwhile, Rafael addressed reports of Spain suspending procurement of its Spike missiles.
Tourgeman stated that no official cancellations have been received and that existing contracts remain in force.
Rafael plans to make Iron Beam fully operational by late 2025, marking a major leap in directed energy weapons technology.
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