After years of joint development by the Ministry of Defense’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D) and Rafael, the Iron Beam project was initiated by the DDR&D. In the last year, a series of tests on the system was carried out that proved the operational capability of the system. Iron Beam is a 100kW-class HELWS, expected to be the first-ever operational system for ground-based air defense against threats such as rockets, mortars and UAV’s, delivering engagement at the speed of light.
“This strategic teaming agreement serves as a force multiplier for Rafael and the Israeli market. We are working to ensure our customers receive the most advanced, effective, and best in class systems. This agreement will expand and diversify the capabilities we can offer to a variety of customers,” said Rafael CEO and President Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Yoav Har-Even. “Over the last three decades, alongside the DDR&D and the Israeli Ministry of Defense, Rafael has invested in laser research and development, resulting in Iron Beam and we expect to become the first operational laser defense system of its kind. This serves as a clear example of Israeli-made capabilities leading to strategic cooperation which will greatly benefit both sides.”
Iron Beam is set to be integrated into Israel’s multi-layered air defence array. The cost-effective and operationally efficient solution will be able to counter emerging threats, while also defending critical infrastructure, strategic sites, maneuvering forces, and population centers.
“Lockheed Martin’s mission is to deliver the best security solutions that help our customers stay ahead of their adversaries. Working with Rafael, our joint team will help bring this new, life-saving capability to our customers,” said Lockheed Martin Chief Operating Officer, Frank St. John. “This unique capability will enhance Israel’s vital air and missile defence system with state-of-the-art laser technology, and we are honored by the opportunity to expand Lockheed Martin’s role as a security teammate for the State of Israel.”
“We see the capability of Iron Beam which was developed alongside the DDR&D as a technological breakthrough, with its proven effectiveness against some of the most sophisticated threats including rockets, mortars, drones and UAVs, including in swarms. The system is designed to provide defense against emerging threats in today’s complex battlefield, bolstering the strength of the Israeli Homefront, and is a catalyst for forging bilateral collaborations said Executive Vice President Dr. Ran Gozali, Head of the Land and Naval Systems Directorate at Rafael.
After a long “war” between the proponents and opponents of a laser-based defence systems, the program has been officially started last year.
Sources say that the initial effort is to develop an electric 100-150 kW solid state laser that will be capable of intercepting rockets and missiles. The idea is to use two laser guns to create the needed power.
A source in the defense industry said that in order to have a system that will be capable of intercepting more than short-range rockets and missiles, Israel will need a laser generator that will be capable of producing a 1 Mega W beam.
According to an official statement, the Directorate of Defense R&D (DDR&D) in the Ministry of Defense has achieved a technological breakthrough in the development of the “Iron Beam” high-power laser system.
The “Iron Beam” is expected to be cost-effective and operationally
