Israel’s Ministry of Defense has signed a major agreement to accelerate production of the Iron Beam laser defense system, which is set to be integrated into Israel’s air defense network within a year. The $534 million contract was awarded to Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems, two leading Israeli defense contractors.
Maj. Gen. (res.) Eyal Zamir, Director-General of the Defense Ministry, explained that the agreement aims to boost local production to strengthen Israel’s air defense infrastructure and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Rafael will lead the project with Elbit supplying the laser components, and production efforts are being expanded to meet a high deployment rate. The system’s interception costs are minimal, limited to the electricity used per shot, in contrast to the $100,000 price per Iron Dome missile interception.
Elbit Systems was awarded an approximately $200 million contract by the Israeli Ministry of Defense (@Israel_MOD ) to supply High Power Laser systems for the “Iron Beam” air defense system.
The High Power Laser system will provide a robust defense solution against a variety of… pic.twitter.com/SYBJjQz0Bq
— Elbit Systems (@ElbitSystemsLtd) October 28, 2024
The Iron Beam is designed to counter threats from drones, rockets, and missiles launched from neighboring regions, including Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen, as well as from Gaza-based groups. First unveiled in 2014 and later demonstrated in testing, the Iron Beam is anticipated to be the world’s first operational high-powered laser defense of its kind. However, the system may face operational challenges in adverse weather, with effectiveness potentially reduced by conditions like clouds, rain, and dust.
By integrating Iron Beam with existing missile defenses, Israel aims to create a more cost-effective and comprehensive defense against airborne attacks. This contract is part of Israel’s broader push to boost its military capabilities amid ongoing regional threats, bolstered by orders worth billions of shekels to support defense industry production within Israel.
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