The system successfully demonstrated its ability to intercept rockets, mortars, aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles in a complete operational configuration across multiple scenarios. The first units are scheduled to be integrated into the IDF’s air defence array by the end of the year.
Iron Beam 450 Reaches Final Development and Readiness for Delivery
Rafael, together with Israel’s Ministry of Defense, has completed the final series of trials for the Iron Beam 450, the world’s first operational high-energy laser defense system.
In these landmark tests, Iron… pic.twitter.com/fhKrB9rL5i
— Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (@RAFAELdefense) September 17, 2025
Iron Beam is a ground-based laser air defence system designed to counter aerial threats with high precision and efficiency while maintaining minimal cost per interception. It is intended to complement existing systems including Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow, and features Rafael’s “adaptive optics” technology for a stable and focused beam.
Rafael CEO and President, Yoav Tourgeman, said: “Rafael proudly concludes this successful, comprehensive laser system trial series, which included numerous complex scenarios that the system handled excellently. Rafael leads the laser interception revolution with operational systems representing the world’s most advanced technology. The ingenuity and boldness of Rafael’s premier scientists and massive R&D investments have produced technological breakthroughs and a globally significant operational-technological achievement. Rafael’s defense and offensive systems continue proving their battlefield effectiveness, contributing significantly to Israel’s security and citizen protection. In the coming months, we’ll deliver the first Iron Beam system from Rafael’s production lines to the defense establishment – a system that will fundamentally change the defense equation by enabling precise, rapid, and cost-effective interception unmatched by any existing system.”
Defence Minister Israel Katz stated: “Achieving operational laser interception capability places the State of Israel at the forefront of global military technology and makes Israel the first nation to possess this capability. This is not only a moment of national pride, but a historic milestone for our defense envelope: rapid, precise interception at marginal cost that joins our existing defense systems and changes the threat equation. I thank all the people in the defense establishment who brought us to this moment. This achievement is theirs, and the people of Israel have much to be proud of. Our enemies from Gaza, Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, and other arenas should know: just as we are strong in defense, we are strong in offense – and we will do everything to protect the security of Israeli citizens.”
