This unprecedented breakthrough occurred during the ongoing conflict in Gaza where Israel Air Force's Aerial Defense Array used the prototype laser air defences to reach a significant milestone in modern warfare.

• It is described as an adapted version of the Iron Beam system.

What is Iron Beam?

• Also known by its Hebrew name Magen Or.
• Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.
• It is a 100kW class High Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS).
  • HELWS are a type of Directed Energy Weapon (DEW).
    • DEWs use concentrated energy from electromagnetic or particle technology, rather than kinetic energy, to degrade or destroy targets.
• The system can neutralize multiple threat types including RAM (Rockets, Artillery, and Mortars), Cruise missiles, UAVs (drones) etc.

Key Benefits of HELWS

• Precision: Neutralizes aerial threats with pinpoint accuracy at ranges of up to 10 km ensures minimal collateral and environmental damage.
• Interoperability: Can easily integrate with variety of platforms and systems as part of a multilayered defense system or can be operated as a standalone system.
• Cost efficient: Almost zero cost per intercept.
• Other: Engaging target at the speed of light, protects military forces and civilian populations, etc.

Limitations of HELWS

• Thermal Constraints: Limited magazine depth due to overheating; the system must pause after successive shots to cool down.
• Weather Sensitivity: Can’t function well in heavy cloud cover and other inclement weather.