by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent
(Worthy News) – Israel’s Iron Beam laser defense system, set to be operational in roughly nine months, intercepts rockets, drones, and mortars within seconds at a range of up to 7 km using a high-energy fiber laser, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Sunday.
During a tour of Rafael’s Leshem Institute in Rakefet in the lower Galilee region, Katz warned Israel’s enemies sternly, emphasizing the nation’s expanding military capabilities.
“Our enemies should understand clearly: We possess multiple means to deliver a decisive strike. If they challenge Israel again, their hand will be severed,” Katz stated.
Developed by Rafael, Iron Beam intercepts rockets and drones with laser technology at just $2–$5 per shot, offering a far cheaper alternative to traditional missile interceptors costing $100,000–$150,000.
Despite its low per-shot cost of $2–$5, deploying and maintaining Iron Beam, the overall costs reach around $2,000 per interception.
“The laser system represents the weapon of the future, capable of neutralizing entire categories of threats with exceptional and continually improving results,” Katz explained. “Israeli citizens deserve this protection.”
The announcement strengthens Israel’s multi-layered air defense amid regional security challenges.
The U.S. funded $1.2 billion for the Iron Beam under the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, signed by President Biden in 2024.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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