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High power lasers have achieved the successful interception of airborne threats for the first time in war conflict, according to the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
The Israel Ministry of Defense Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), the Israeli Air Force (IAF), and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems executed an accelerated development program to deploy the interception systems, according to the MOD.
“As a result of the initiative, soldiers from the IAF Aerial Defense Array operated high power laser system prototypes in the field, successfully intercepting scores of enemy threats,” the MOD said.
“The deployed laser systems are part of Rafael’s portfolio of directed energy weapon systems, developed in collaboration with the IMOD, and complement the more powerful Iron Beam system, currently under development, which is expected to be delivered to the IDF later this year.
“These systems are based on technological breakthroughs developed over decades at Rafael, in close cooperation with the R&D division of the DDR&D.”
The IAF, including its Aerial Defense Array soldiers, have reportedly studied and deployed laser systems in the field throughout the current conflict in Gaza to save civilian lives and protect national assets, according to a published statement.
In addition, the Israel Ministry of Defense also recently announced its 800th aircraft during a comprehensive military equipment and weapons airlift operation into Israel.
The joint operation was coordinated by the IMOD’s Defense Procurement Directorate via the International Defense Transportation Unit, in collaboration with the IMOD Mission to US, the IDF Planning and Force Build-Up Directorate, and the Israeli Air Force.
Throughout the operation, more than 90,000 tonnes of military equipment has been delivered to Israel via 800 flights and approximately 140 maritime shipments. The procured and transported equipment includes munitions, armoured vehicles, individual protective equipment and medical supplies.
