Israel's upcoming deployment of a new laser aerial defense system will reduce threats from short-range rockets and drones while reinforcing a long-term push for defense self-sufficiency and expanding opportunities for international defense production partnerships and exports. Israel is set to deploy the Iron Beam laser defense system by the end of the year, following the completion of operational testing of the system in September. The defense ministry and primary Israeli military contractors Elbit and Rafael have confirmed that the first batteries are scheduled for transfer to the Israel Defense Forces, or IDF, on Dec. 30. Initial operational use of the system is expected in 2026. If implemented as scheduled, the deployment will make Israel the first country to field a combat-ready laser air defense system. The defense ministry reported that the 100-kilowatt system successfully intercepted missiles, mortar rounds, UAVs and other aerial threats during weeks of testing, demonstrating the ability...
