As the world grapples with the escalating threat of drones and missile attacks, Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has unveiled a trio of groundbreaking laser-based platforms that could redefine modern air defense. Announced on June 5, 2025, these systems will take center stage at the Paris Air Show, a global hub for showcasing defense innovations tailored to next-generation challenges.
Leading the charge is the Iron Beam 450, a 100-kilowatt laser capable of neutralizing targets up to 10 kilometers away. Unlike conventional missile-based systems, this technology uses concentrated light to instantly “burn” through drones, rockets, and other airborne threats. The cost? A mere $20 per shot, a fraction of the tens of thousands required for traditional missile intercepts. This efficiency could transform how nations protect their skies.
For forces on the move, the Iron Beam M offers a mobile solution mounted on wheeled platforms, designed to shield troops and rapid-response units in conflict zones. Meanwhile, the compact Lite Beam, deployable on lightweight vehicles like pickups, delivers a 10-kilowatt punch to counter small drones at close range—an increasingly critical capability in today’s asymmetric warfare.
These systems aren’t just theoretical. In 2024, Rafael’s lasers proved their worth in real-world tests, intercepting drones in northern Israel and along the Lebanese border. A historic milestone came in April 2024, when one of these systems achieved the world’s first combat laser interception of a drone, marking a new era in defense technology.
The global response has been swift. Several nations are reportedly in talks to acquire Rafael’s systems, driven by growing concerns over the proliferation of drones, including those used by non-state actors and terrorist groups. The technology’s promise of cost-effective, precise defense is a compelling draw for militaries adapting to evolving threats.
Yet, challenges remain. Political and ethical debates have slowed some deals, as seen in Spain’s recent decision to pause a €230 million contract with Rafael amid concerns tied to Middle Eastern conflicts. Still, experts predict these hurdles won’t derail the broader shift toward laser-based air defense, where affordability and effectiveness are paramount.
Israel’s showcase in Europe signals a bold step toward a future where energy-based systems replace traditional munitions. As the arms race pivots from warheads to precision and power, these laser innovations position their creators at the forefront of tomorrow’s security landscape.
