Iron Beam: Israel’s New Laser Defence System and the Global Race for Anti-Missile Technology

Israel has introduced a new defense system to its arsenal, designed to intercept incoming missiles with unprecedented speed. Known as Iron Beam, the system was developed in a collaborative effort between Elbit Systems and Rafael Advanced Defence Systems. Following successful testing, deployment is scheduled for later this year. This new addition complements Israel’s existing air defense network, which includes Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems. These systems have demonstrated their effectiveness by intercepting thousands of projectiles launched by Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen.