Israel to Launch 'Iron Beam' Laser Defense System, Operational in One Year, Reducing Costs from $50,000 to $2

Nov 2, 2024, 11:56 PM

Israel is set to enhance its air defense capabilities with the introduction of the 'Iron Beam', a high-power laser system expected to be operational within a year. This new system will complement the existing Iron Dome, which intercepts missiles and drones at a cost of $50,000 per interception. In contrast, the Iron Beam will significantly reduce costs to approximately $2 per intercept. The chairman of Rafael, the defense company behind the development, stated that the deployment of laser-based air defenses could eliminate most rocket alert sirens across Israel, as the system would allow for rapid interception of incoming threats over enemy territory. Meanwhile, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan announced plans for Turkey to develop its own 'Steel Dome' multi-layered air defense system and enhance its long-range missile capabilities.