Iron Beam air defence laser weapon system to become operational in 2025, says Rafael CEO

By Defence Industry Europe

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has announced record financial results for 2024, with CEO Yoav Turgeman confirming that the company’s Iron Beam high energy laser weapon system will become operational this year. Speaking to Globes, Turgeman said the company’s primary focus in 2025 will be delivering the system to support Israel’s air defence.

 

“We are the first company in the world to bring such an operational laser product,” Turgeman told Globes. “Despite all the challenges, we are meeting our commitment. This is a significant global achievement.”

The Iron Beam system is designed to complement existing defence platforms such as the Iron Dome, with a significant cost advantage. While each Iron Dome interception is estimated at around USD 30,000, Iron Beam’s laser-based approach offers a far cheaper alternative.

 

 

Turgeman highlighted that Iron Dome has remained effective under pressure, intercepting required targets despite “tens of thousands of rockets” launched. “Some said there would be a shortage of missiles, but that did not happen… The Iron Beam system will reduce interception costs and increase efficiency, due to interception at the speed of light,” he added.

The introduction of the Iron Beam marks a technological milestone in global defence capabilities, potentially transforming the economics of missile interception. Its deployment is expected to enhance both the speed and affordability of Israel’s defensive responses.

 

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