Social media users have been sharing videos of light beams appearing in the sky over Israel, which experts say represent the first instance of the laser-based missile defense system, known as "Iron Beam," in active combat to intercept drones and rockets launched by Palestinian factions, according to the Russian newspaper "Rossiyskaya Gazeta." Reportedly, the first of its kind Israeli air defense system "Iron Beam" was activated to intercept rockets from Palestinian resistance in Gaza, years ahead of its scheduled operational date.
Israeli army correspondent Hillel Halil for Channel 14 stated on his X platform account: "For the first time in the world, a laser system developed in Israel succeeded in intercepting a rocket launched at Israel during combat days," according to Newsweek magazine.
According to these videos, the "Iron Beam" weapon intercepted rockets fired by Hamas fighters. Here are some key details available about it:
- The "Iron Beam" is a high-powered laser beam manufactured by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to intercept rockets and short-range projectiles.
- It is a laser-based anti-missile system.
- It is referred to as the "Iron Beam," "Thunder System," or "Laser Wall."
- It is expected to be operational in the Israeli army by 2025.
- Known as the "Light Shield," it was developed by the Israeli company Rafael.
- Its aim is to complement the Israeli Iron Dome defense system.
- It is cost-effective, with interception costs of around $3-4 per missile compared to $50,000 when utilizing the Iron Dome system.
Israel hopes to deploy the "Iron Beam" early next year as a much cheaper alternative to the interceptor missiles currently used to neutralize hostile rockets and drones.
