JERUSALEM, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli military received its first operational high-power laser air-defense system on Sunday, the Israeli Defense Ministry said, calling it a milestone in the country's multi-layered defense capabilities.
Dubbed Iron Beam and developed by the ministry's research directorate in collaboration with the Israeli arms firm Rafael, the system is designed to intercept short-range ballistic threats such as rockets, mortar shells, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The ministry said it will be integrated into the Israeli Air Force alongside existing systems, including the short-range Iron Dome, the David's Sling for medium- to long-range missiles, and Arrow systems for long-range ballistic missile interception.
Defense Minister Israel Katz described the handover as a turning point, saying the laser system had reached "operational maturity" after a series of successful trials. "This achievement changes the rules of the game and sends a clear message to all our enemies -- near and far alike: do not test us," Katz said in a statement.
Unlike conventional interceptors that uses missiles, Iron Beam uses a concentrated laser to destroy incoming threats. This makes it cheaper per shot and faster for short-range defense.
Amir Baram, director-general of the Defense Ministry, said the delivery marked the transition from development to serial production. "From today, Iron Beam constitutes an additional layer in Israel's multi-tiered defense array," he said.
The move comes as Israeli officials say the country is seeking greater self-reliance in weapons manufacturing. Despite ceasefires announced with Hezbollah and Hamas, Israel has continued to carry out frequent attacks in Gaza, Lebanon, the West Bank, and Syria. Israeli officials have recently said a new round of fighting with Iran could be possible within a year. ■
