In response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israeli defense forces are considering the deployment of laser weapons on the battlefield. Specifically, they are looking at the Iron Beam air defense system, which has the capability to fire potent beams of light capable of destroying fast-moving projectiles. Originally slated to become operational in 2025, the outbreak of the war has prompted the Israeli Ministry of Defense to explore the possibility of deploying it ahead of schedule. Reports from local Israeli media indicate that they are expediting the deployment of Iron Beam and initiating tests.
Unveiled in 2014, the Iron Beam system, designed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is a directed-energy weapon air defense system that utilizes powerful laser beams. Dr. Yehoshua Kalisky of the Institute for National Security Studies noted that while the timeframe remains uncertain, the system could become "operational very soon." He emphasized the importance of integrating it into the early warning systems, as the Iron Beam is not a standalone system and must be coupled with existing air defense infrastructure.
In contrast to the Iron Dome missile defense system, the Iron Beam is considered a more cost-effective and flexible alternative. Instead of employing expensive interceptors costing $60,000 each, the Iron Beam uses laser beams that are considerably more budget-friendly. Additionally, the Iron Beam is smaller and lighter than the Iron Dome, making it easier to transport and conceal.
However, the Iron Beam does have limitations. It is less effective in wet conditions, and even under optimal circumstances, the laser can lose 30 to 40 percent of its energy to atmospheric moisture before reaching the target. This system also necessitates a direct line of sight between the equipment and its target, making its placement more critical compared to the Iron Dome. Furthermore, the Iron Beam has a slower rate of fire, requiring about five seconds to deliver sufficient energy to destroy its target.
Currently, the practical use of the Iron Beam in a battlefield context remains speculative.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which escalated with a wave of attacks on Saturday, has led to a significant loss of life and has triggered the biggest hostage crisis Israel has ever faced, as Hamas took around 200 Israelis, hostage, during its October 7 attack on Israeli territory.
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