Elbit Systems develops airborne variant of Iron Beam high-energy laser weapon system

The company supplies the Iron Beam to system prime contractor Rafael, with the Israel Defense Ministry having suggested in May that the technology destroyed enemy drones. Elbit officials also reported use of company equipment during Israel’s 12-day war with Iran, including the Hermes 900 uncrewed aircraft system operating over Tehran.

Chief Financial Officer Kobi Kagan confirmed that the Rampage air-launched missile, developed with Israel Aerospace Industries, was heavily deployed. The update coincided with Elbit announcing a 20% rise in second-quarter sales to $1.97 billion, driven by precision-guided munitions in Israel and the Asia-Pacific and UAS deliveries to Europe.

The company’s order backlog climbed $626 million from the previous quarter to $23.8 billion, with overseas customers increasing their share to 68% from 66%. More than half of the current backlog is scheduled to provide revenue beyond 2026.

Machlis added that funds from a May capital raise could support acquisitions or expanding international operations. Elbit also revealed a $1.6 billion, five-year contract from an unnamed European state covering long-range strike, signals intelligence, electronic warfare, and loitering munitions.

Despite some governments signalling reluctance to engage with Israeli firms over the Gaza conflict, Elbit highlighted continued opportunities. Machlis said the company “sees more business opportunities than ever.”

Source: Aviation Week.