(haipo) – The Ministry of Defense and Rafael announced the completion of the development of the high-power "Iron Beam" laser system, which will enter operational use in the IDF in the near future. The system, which has been successfully tested against rockets, mortar bombs, and unmanned aerial vehicles, is expected to place Israel at the forefront of global air defense.
The "Or Eitan" laser system ► View
A successful series of experiments in the south of the country
Over the course of several weeks, advanced operational tests were conducted at a test field in southern Israel. The system successfully intercepted a wide range of threats: rockets, mortars, and drones, in field conditions that simulate real operational scenarios. This is the final stage before the system is absorbed into the IDF, which is expected to occur by the end of the year.
A broad technology partnership
The project was led by the R&D unit at the Research, Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructures Administration (MAPAT) in collaboration with the Air Force, Rafael, and Elbit Systems, which manufactures the laser source. In addition, other defense industries participated in the development, including SCD and Shafir Systems. The system is based on a unique "adaptive optics" technology developed at Rafael, which allows for exceptional stability and precision.
"Or Eitan" system – a new layer of protection
The system will be integrated into Israel's multi-layered defense system alongside Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow. Its main advantage is the ability to quickly neutralize threats with a low margin, compared to expensive kinetic interceptors. In this way, it provides a complementary response to the increasing threats, especially rocket and drone fire from various arenas.
Honor and Commemoration
The Ministry of Defense gave the system the name "Or Eitan", in memory of the late Captain Eitan Oster, an Egoz officer who fell in battle in southern Lebanon. His father, who served as a Mafat officer, was among the initiators and developers of the project.
Defense Minister Israel Katz He said: "Israel is becoming the first country in the world to possess the ability to intercept a high-powered laser. This is a historic moment and a national pride that will change the defense equation against our enemies."
Director General of the Ministry of Defense, Major General (Res.) Amir Baram, He emphasized: "The laser system is reaching operational maturity and constitutes a historic milestone in the multi-layered defense system."
Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Chairman of Rafael: "Rafael is the first company in the world to turn a high-power laser into a proven operational system. This is a technological and operational achievement that will impact the modern battlefield."
Dr. Danny Gold, former head of the Israel Defense Forces: "The 'Or Eitan' system proves Israel's global superiority in laser technology. The combination of laser interception and missiles will further strengthen the defense envelope against rockets, missiles and UAVs."
Brigadier General Yehuda Al-Makiis, Head of R&D at the IDF: "The success of the trials is the beginning of a new era in laser systems. The 'Or Eitan' system will be the first step in integrating energy weapons into the IDF's overall defense and maneuver systems."
Yoav Turgeman, CEO of Rafael: "Rafael is leading the laser interception revolution in the world. The 'Or Eitan' system will change the defense equation and enable accurate, fast, and cheaper interception than any existing means."
Looking ahead
The defense establishment notes that "Or Eitan" is just the beginning, and the technology is also expected to be integrated into the IDF's ground defense and maneuver systems. In this way, Israel is expected to continue to lead the field of energy-based weapons in the world.
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I don't understand why they didn't check the system in its current operational state.
Although I'm almost certain that the system
It is operationally operated, in my opinion, against terrorists, border security, and against ballistic missiles at high distances and above the clouds, operated from high-altitude aircraft, equipped with a laser, and operated from an airborne platform.
The beautiful faces of the people of Israel are behind the spotlight, working and contributing to security and creativity, even though their voices are not heard. Their actions serve as a crown for their heads and protection for the people of Israel. Blessed are they and blessed is their lot!