The Defense Ministry announced on Sunday that the first operational high-power laser interception system, Iron Beam, has been delivered to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). 

The handover took place at an official ceremony held at Rafael’s headquarters in northern Israel.

Following a complex development process, the Israel MOD’s DDR&D and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems delivered the first Iron Beam laser system to the IDF at an official ceremony held today at Rafael’s headquarters in northern Israel.

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— Ministry of Defense (@Israel_MOD) December 28, 2025

Developed in collaboration with Rafael and Elbit Systems, Iron Beam follows the smaller Lite Beam system and offers advanced, low-cost interception of aerial threats. 

“The system features an advanced laser source and a unique electro-optical targeting system, enabling the interception of a wide range of targets at an enhanced operational range, with maximum precision and superior efficiency – all at a negligible marginal cost, which constitutes the laser system’s primary advantage,” the ministry said in a statement. 

The system will now join Israel’s multi-layered air-defense network, alongside Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems. 

Defense Minister Israel Katz called the milestone a “game changer” that sends a strong message to Israel’s adversaries. 

Israel described the delivery as the start of the defensive laser era. 

“Israel has become the first country in the world to field an operational laser system for the interception of aerial threats, including rockets and missiles. This milestone was made possible by Rafael’s unique adaptive optics technology, representing a global scientific breakthrough,” Rafael Chairman Yuval Steinitz said.