During the "Iron Swords" war, the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), the Air Force, and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems accelerated the development of new laser-based interception systems. 

These systems were successfully deployed in combat, allowing air defense forces to intercept dozens of enemy targets.

The systems rely on decades of technological breakthroughs by Rafael and DDR&D, and form an additional layer of Israel’s multi-tier defense system. Alongside the new systems, Rafael’s "Iron Beam" laser defense system is also nearing completion and is expected to be delivered to the IDF later this year.

Air defense units deployed the laser systems during wartime and achieved high interception success rates, saving civilian lives and protecting strategic assets. According to Brig. Gen. (res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, head of DDR&D, “Israel is the first country in the world to present a large-scale operational laser interception capability. This is a major technological and operational breakthrough, realized in the midst of battle.”

He emphasized that the lessons learned from these initial deployments will be integrated into future operations, with the laser becoming an integral layer in Israel’s defense strategy.

Brig. Gen. Yehuda Elmakias, head of R&D at DDR&D, stated that several models of high-power laser systems were successfully operated during the war, marking the world’s first operational success of such systems in real combat. The experience gained will be used to develop future systems and expand deployment for better protection of civilians and IDF forces.

Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Chairman of Rafael, called the achievement a global milestone. “Israel is the first country to develop and use a high-power laser system for real operational interceptions. The Iron Beam system will dramatically change the battlefield.”

Rafael CEO Yoav Turgeman praised the innovation and courage of the company's scientists and engineers, saying the upcoming deployment of the Iron Beam system will provide faster, more precise, and cost-effective defense than existing systems.

Brig. Gen. G., Commander of Israel’s Air Defense Array, added: “The first operational achievements of laser interception are a source of national pride, demonstrating the remarkable capabilities of Israel’s defense industries and air force fighters even in the midst of war.”