Middle East
Israel’s laser defense ready for use in a year
Israel successfully protects itself against rocket attacks with the Iron Dome missile defense system. The laser-assisted Iron Beam is intended to strengthen the defense even further and make it cheaper.
According to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, the Iron Beam is expected to be operational in a year as a laser-based addition to existing air defenses. The Defense Ministry signed a contract worth more than two billion shekels (almost 500 million euros) with the manufacturers Rafael and Elbit.
“This agreement ushers in a new era – the era of laser defense,” Israeli news portal ynet quoted Defense Ministry Director General Ejal Samir as saying.
The Iron Beam system is designed to intercept rockets, mortar shells, drones and cruise missiles. It is intended to be integrated into Israel’s multi-tiered defense network as a cost-effective complement to the Iron Dome.
The integration of Iron Beam could significantly improve Israel’s defense capability against current and future threats at a fraction of the cost of conventional interceptor systems, it said. According to US information, the system can neutralize targets such as drones for around four dollars per use.
dpa
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
