A Study is Underway to Develop a Laser Weapon System: "IRON BEAM" Project

Lockheed Martin and Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems have signed a "teaming agreement" to develop, test and manufacture High Energy Laser Weapon Systems (HELWS) in both the United States and Israel, according to a Lockheed Martin press release. The assets of RAFAEL and the Israeli Ministry of Defense's Defense Research and Development Directorate (DDR&D) for the IRON BEAM project will form the basis for the upcoming joint development. Lockheed Martin says the collaboration will focus on creating a variation of the system for the American market and other markets.

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What is IRON BEAM?

IRON BEAM is a 100 kW class high-energy laser weapon system (HELWS) that will enable light-speed engagement. The rocket is expected to be the first land-based air defense system to protect against threats such as mortars and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). RAFAEL CEO and President Major General (Retired) Yoav Har-Even made statements.

How will IRON BEAM be used?

IRON BEAM will be used in Israel's multi-layered air defense system. The solution will be cheap and easy to use and will be able to protect population centers, critical infrastructure, strategic locations and maneuver forces from new threats.

According to Dr. Ran Gozali, Rafael's Executive Vice President and Head of the Land and Naval Systems Directorate, the system is designed to defend against emerging threats in today's complex battlefield, support the Israeli Home Front and serve as a catalyst for bilateral cooperation.