Rafael has announced that its high-power laser systems have been used to intercept aerial threats in combat during Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Developed in partnership with the Israel Ministry of Defense and the Israeli Air Force (IAF), Rafael’s laser interceptors were successfully deployed by the IAF’s Aerial Defense Array, neutralising multiple threats.
Rafael says this “new era in warfare” will soon expand with the delivery of Iron Beam, Rafael’s next-generation laser weapon for air defense, which is expected to be delivered this year.
Head of Israel’s Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Daniel Gold, said Israel is the first to demonstrate large-scale operational laser interception capabilities. “IDF combat units displayed boldness in integrating and carrying out the first successful operational deployments of the systems, and the lessons learned will be applied as we deploy more operational laser systems. Laser interception systems will provide an additional layer within Israel’s multi-tiered air defense array”.
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Image: IDF Spokesperson’s Uniṭ / Rafael
