Israel’s Iron Beam laser weapon system wins 2026 Aviation Week Laureate Award for defence innovation

By Defence Industry Europe

The Israel Ministry of Defense’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), along with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems, has received the 2026 Aviation Week Network Laureate Award for the Iron Beam laser interception system. The award honours the development of the world’s first high-energy laser system capable of efficiently intercepting rockets, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Photo: Israeli Ministry of Defense.

The Israel Ministry of Defense’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), along with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems, has received the 2026 Aviation Week Network Laureate Award for the Iron Beam laser interception system. The award honours the development of the world’s first high-energy laser system capable of efficiently intercepting rockets, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

 

Developed by DDR&D (MAFAT) in partnership with Rafael and Elbit Systems, Iron Beam has proven its operational capability through successful interceptions of rockets, mortars, and drones during a series of tests. The system offers a fast, cost-effective and efficient response to evolving aerial threats.

 

 

“Since its establishment in 1957, the Aviation Week Laureate Awards have been among the most prestigious honors in the global aerospace and defense industry, celebrating groundbreaking innovation and exceptional contributions to the international aerospace community,” the Ministry of Defense stated. The recognition places Israel’s defence technology at the forefront of global aerospace advancements.

 

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