Israel has confirmed that its air defense forces successfully used a prototype of its new Iron Beam laser system, known as “Magen Or” (Light Shield), to intercept and destroy dozens of enemy aerial threats, including Hezbollah drones.
In a statement on Wednesday, Israeli authorities said the system used during the fighting is a smaller version of the Iron Beam high-powered laser interceptor, which is expected to be delivered to the IDF later this year.
Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in coordination with the Defense Ministry’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development (MAFAT), Israeli authorities said the system’s deployment was accelerated in response to the growing drone threat from Hezbollah, which launched over 300 explosive-laden drones at Israel during the conflict in the north.
“During the war, the Air Force… deployed the laser system, and led to particularly high interception achievements that saved civilians and defended national assets,” said a joint statement from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Ministry of Defense (MOD).
Rafael confirmed the system’s use in a post on X, stating: “Rafael’s laser interceptors were successfully deployed by the IAF’s (Israeli Air Force) Aerial Defense Array, neutralizing enemy threats with speed, precision, and zero cost per shot.” The statement was accompanied by a video showing the laser system shooting down drones.
A World First — Combat-Proven Laser Defense, Powered by Rafael
For the first time in history, high-power laser systems have been used to intercept aerial threats in combat.
This unprecedented breakthrough took place during the Swords of Iron War — with Rafael’s advanced… pic.twitter.com/B3D6UdCJvE— Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (@RAFAELdefense) May 28, 2025
While specific capabilities were not disclosed, defense officials stated that the laser system, part of Israel’s layered air defense network, enhances existing missile defenses by offering a faster and more cost-effective method of intercepting threats.
“Israel is the first country in the world to showcase a large-scale operational laser interception capability,” said Brig. Gen. (res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, head of MAFAT. “The vision of the laser was demonstrated during the war with immense operational and technological success.”
Brig. Gen. Gilad Beran, commander of the IDF’s Air Defense Array, said the laser systems’ success in intercepting Hezbollah drones during the conflict is a point of national pride.
“This achievement is the result of hard work by many exceptional people determined to do everything possible to protect the homeland,” he said.
“We are very proud of this operational and technological breakthrough,” said Rafael chairman Dr. Yuval Steinitz. “Iron Beam will be a game-changer that will have an unprecedented impact on the modern battlefield.”
