Israel to deploy new laser defense system to intercept missiles and drones

edition.cnn.com November 1, 2024, 01:01 PM UTC

Israel plans to deploy its new "Iron Beam" laser defense system within a year. This system aims to counter missiles, drones, and other projectiles using high-power lasers, marking a shift from traditional missile interception methods.

The Israeli defense ministry has invested over $500 million to enhance production capabilities with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems. The Iron Beam is expected to be more cost-effective than the Iron Dome, with each laser interception costing around $2 compared to $50,000 for a missile.

While the Iron Beam could improve defenses against drones, it may struggle in poor weather conditions and requires significant power. Its effectiveness against ballistic missiles remains uncertain, but it could serve as an additional layer of defense for Israel.

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Timeline:

  1. [4.2]
    Israel prepares to deploy $500 million Iron Beam air defense system against Iranian missiles (india.com)
    3d 14h
    Source
  2. [4.9]
    Israel signs $2 billion deal for Iron Beam laser missile defense system (livemint.com)
    4d 15h
    Source
  3. [4.7]
    Israel to introduce laser-powered Iron Beam to enhance air defense system (timesnownews.com)
    4d 17h
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  4. [4.3]
    Israel boosts missile defense with $536 million laser system deal (india.com)
    4d 18h
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  5. [4.8]
    Israel's Iron Beam laser defense system to become operational within a year (ndtv.com)
    4d 22h
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