On the night of March 2, 2026, the Israel Defense Forces utilized the cutting-edge "Iron Beam" laser system for the first time in active combat to intercept enemy drones.
As reported by Hvylya, the development was first disclosed by the specialized military publication Israeldefense. The Iron Beam is a ground-based, 100-kilowatt high-energy laser weapon developed by the Israeli Ministry of Defense's Directorate of Defense Research and Development in collaboration with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The system is designed to instantaneously neutralize rockets, mortars, drones, and other high-speed, small-scale aerial threats.
The primary advantage of the combat laser lies in its inexhaustible ammunition supply and unprecedented cost-efficiency. As long as the unit is connected to a power source, it can fire without limitation. The cost per shot is estimated at just $2 to $5, covering only the electricity used. In stark contrast, launching a single Iron Dome interceptor missile costs the budget between $50,000 and $150,000.
Furthermore, unlike traditional interceptor missiles, the laser does not produce dangerous falling debris from its own projectiles. This characteristic is critical when repelling attacks over densely populated urban areas.
In September of last year, the Israeli defense establishment reported the successful completion of multi-week system trials in the south of the country. By December, the first operational unit was officially handed over to the military during a formal ceremony.
"The system will be integrated into Israel's multi-layered air defense network alongside the Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow systems," the Ministry of Defense stated.
It is worth noting that on Saturday, February 28, Israel and the United States launched massive coordinated strikes against Iran. According to statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump, the primary objective of the operation was the destruction of the Islamic Republic's military and political leadership.
Meanwhile, Trump has outlined the expected timeline for the conflict with Iran and announced an impending "big wave" of strikes.