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The World's First Operational Laser Interception System

(Institute for National Security Studies-Tel Aviv University) Dr. Yehoshua Kalisky - The operational success of Israel's Iron Beam high-power laser system in intercepting UAVs marks an operational breakthrough, as this is the first publicly confirmed interception of an aerial threat using electromagnetic rather than kinetic weaponry. The Iron Beam generates multiple laser beams through proprietary technologies and then combines them while preserving their unique properties. When the resulting beam hits the target, the intense heat causes significant structural failure in the intercepted object. The system can correct distortions and deviations of the beam as it passes through the atmosphere, thereby enabling high power density on the target. It operates at the speed of light and can neutralize short-range, low-flying UAVs and drones, as well as faster threats like mortars and short-range rockets. Environmental factors limiting the system include clouds, rain, fog, smoke, or dust, currently limiting the laser's effective range to 8-10 km. However, these limitations can be addressed. The writer, a senior researcher at INSS, has made significant scientific and technical contributions to the field of laser physics.
2025-06-08 00:00:00
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