The Israeli Ministry of Defence has announced a $530 million contract to accelerate the development of the innovative Iron Beam laser system, which will be an important addition to the existing multi-layered air defence. This was reported by Reuters.
The main goal of the Iron Beam is to more effectively counter air threats, in particular drones, which are actively used by the Lebanese Hezbollah movement. Over the past year, these drones have repeatedly evaded traditional Israeli defences, resulting in military and civilian casualties.
The Iron Beam is being developed by the Israeli company Rafael in partnership with Elbit Systems with financial and technical support from the United States. The system is expected to be ready for use within a year, said Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Defence Eyal Zamir.
The new contract provides for both the development of laser weapons capabilities and preparations for integration with existing defence systems, including the Iron Dome for intercepting short-range missiles and the David’s Sling for destroying ballistic missiles.
The laser technology has significant economic potential: it is estimated that a single shot will cost about $4. The technology can also be installed on aircraft to neutralise a wide range of airborne targets, from drones to ballistic missiles.
At the end of September, Israel received a new US military aid package worth $8.7 billion, of which more than $5 billion was allocated to improve its air defence systems, including the development of the Iron Beam.
