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23h ago

Israel Deploys High-Energy Laser to Down Hezbollah Drones

The demonstration highlights Israel’s push for cost-effective, pinpoint air defense as the full Iron Beam system is scheduled to enter service later this year.

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High-power laser take down drone in world’s first combat use.
Israel has used a laser directed-energy system to intercept real-life targets for the first time, according to the Israeli government.
The high-energy laser destroying a drone's wing

Overview

  • The prototype system carried out its initial combat engagements in late October, neutralizing several Hezbollah unmanned aerial vehicles across the Lebanese border during the Swords of Iron operation.
  • Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with the Israeli Air Force and the Directorate of Defense Research and Development, the scaled-down 100 kW model paves the way for full Iron Beam integration.
  • Each laser shot costs about £2, a fraction of the tens of thousands of pounds spent per intercept by missile-based shields such as Iron Dome.
  • The beam can engage targets up to 10 km away with pinpoint accuracy but loses effectiveness in rain or fog and requires an unobstructed line of sight.
  • News of the operational debut has spurred similar high-energy laser defense programs in the US, UK, China and India as nations seek next-generation aerial protection.