The Israel Ministry of Defense have announced a landmark security deal worth over $500 million.

The Iron Beam is Israel’s first domestically developed laser interception system. Lead developers are Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems.

The ground-based high-power laser air defense system is designed to counter aerial threats including rockets, mortars, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and cruise missiles.

Iron Beam is a global technological breakthrough. Interception capabilities have passed successful trials. The system is expected to integrate into Israel’s multi-layered defense alongside the Iron Dome and David’s Sling systems to combat current and future threats at lower operational costs.

IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir signed the deal at the Ministry’s headquarters in Tel Aviv attended by Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Daniel Gold, Head of Defense Research and Development, Yoav Tourgeman, Rafael CEO, Bezhalel Machlis, Elbit CEO, Dekel Cohen, CPA and senior officials.

Zamir said: “Since the outbreak of war, the Ministry has signed hundreds of orders worth billions of dollars to strengthen domestic production capabilities and build the IDF’s force. The Iron Beam deal is among our most significant agreements as it heralds the beginning of a new era in warfare. The initial capability of the ground-based laser system is expected to enter operational service within one year. The deal will ensure continued and accelerated procurement of many additional laser systems.”

Gold noted: “The Iron Beam system demonstrates the expertise of our defense industries combining creativity, innovation and inventiveness with effective management and execution capabilities. We have achieved a qualitative military edge and its battlefield implementation by successfully integrating defense industries and startup companies. Iron Beam will complement the Iron Dome, the combination of laser and missile interception will strengthen our defense systems.”

Tourgeman added: “After years of research, development and significant technological breakthroughs in laser technology at Rafael, the Iron Beam system will soon reach maturity for operational deployment. The roject marks a significant milestone in upgrading Israel’s air defense capabilities. Iron Beam will join Iron Dome and David’s Sling, providing optimal protection for Israeli citizens.”

Machlis noted: “Iron Beam represents a quantum leap in future defense technology against various threats. The development of laser technology and its integration into a national project led by the IMoD is another significant step in maturing Elbit’ capabilities in advancing defense and warfare technologies.”