Israel Accelerates Development of Laser Interception Systems Amid War
Introduction of Advanced Weaponry
During the Iron Swords War, Israel’s Ministry of Defense, the Israel Air Force, and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems spearheaded an accelerated development process for new laser interception systems. This initiative successfully intercepted dozens of enemy targets, including drstarts, showcasing a significant military advancement.
Overview of Laser Systems
The laser systems represent an additional layer of defense technology being developed by the Ministry of Defense, complementing existing systems such as the Iron Dome. The latest project, known as “Magen Or” (Shield of Light), is expected to be operationally deployed to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in the last quarter of this year. Throughout the war, the Air Force defense units learned and expanded the deployment of laser systems, achieving high interception rates that protected civilian lives and national assets.
Upcoming Tests and Challenges
The Israeli security establishment is preparing for another significant air defense test using the Magen Or laser system. If successful, this trial will move the Ministry of Defense and Rafael closer to operational completion by the end of the year. However, any negative technical surprises could jeopardize the intended timelines. The upcoming trial will utilize a prototype of the system that has already demonstrated effectiveness in various parameters.
What is the Magen Or Laser System?
Magen Or is designed to supplement the Iron Dome, with both systems being controlled from the same command center. The Iron Dome is capable of intercepting threats at ranges of up to 40 kilometers, whereas Magen Or targets up to 10 kilometers using a powerful laser beam with an output of approximately 100 kilowatts. There are no other laser systems in the world generating such power levels. However, creating this unprecedented technology presents challenges.
Throughout Magen Or’s development, various surprises arose due to compstartnt responses under different loads. A significant challenge with laser systems is “attenuation,” or the loss of strength of the laser beam as it travels away from the source. Moreover, factors like cloudy, hazy, or foggy weather restrict the laser’s operational efficacy.
Technological Solutions
Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Chair of Rafael, discussed technical challenges, highlighting that Magen Or fires hundreds of small beams aimed at targets. When start beam detects aim at a target via telescopic reflection, additional beams are directed at that target, providing focused energy leading to rapid interception.
Economic and Operational Benefits
The development project is led by the Research and Development Administration in the Ministry of Defense, alongside Rafael and Elbit Systems. Lockheed Martin, a major defense contractor, joined the project in late 2022, investing tens of millions of dollars-a financial commitment independent of the U.S. aid package that allocates $500 million annually for joint air defense projects. Lockheed Martin aims to market the Magen Or system in the U.S. market.
In October, the Ministry of Defense funded a 2 billion shekel deal to expand the production of Magen Or, which is expected to deliver several initial systems. Although the Ministry aims to finalize the operational phase by the end of the year, there is a widespread expectation within the defense establishment that some of these systems may not be delivered until 2026, provided the final test does not yield unforeseen issues.
The Imperative of Timely Deployment
The pressure to adhere to these timelines is driven by two main factors. Firstly, Israel lacks a comprehensive defensive shield and never will; however, integrating Magen Or with the Iron Dome will expand its coverage in terms of interception capabilities and address various threats, including rockets, mortars, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cruise missiles. Additionally, air defense using lasers is significantly more cost-effective than traditional missile defense, with an Iron Dome interception costing approximately $30,000, while Magen Or’s intercepts are anticipated to cost only $5 to $10 per target.
Conclusion: A New Paradigm in Defense
The confluence of power and cost-effectiveness is likely to make the Magen Or system a highly sought-after export product. During the Biden administration, $1.2 billion was invested in the system for its second batch, with plans for the U.S. to participate in 50% local production, which will provide economic benefits and technological advancements to its defense forces.
The development of the Magen Or laser interception system represents a pivotal shift in Israel’s defense capabilities, positioning it as a leader in cutting-edge military technology within a highly dynamic and challenging security landscape