In a groundbreaking advancement for directed energy weapons, Israel has become the first country to successfully deploy high-powered laser systems in real combat conditions.

Developed jointly by the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), the Israeli Air Force (IAF), and RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems, these laser systems have intercepted multiple aerial threats, setting a global precedent for laser-based defense in operational environments.

Figure 1.Drone.

High-Energy Lasers Neutralize Aerial Threats

These experimental prototypes, developed under an accelerated program, are part of RAFAEL’s expanding portfolio of directed energy technologies and serve as a precursor to the IRON BEAM system, expected to reach full operational capability later this year [1]. Figure 1 shows Drone.

The laser systems were operated by trained IAF personnel and demonstrated high interception success rates, confirming their potential as precise, cost-effective, and low-maintenance solutions for aerial defense.

Dr. Daniel Gold, head of the DDR&D, emphasized that this achievement is the result of decades of research, and proves the operational value of high-energy laser technology across land, sea, and air defense platforms.

Once deployed, IRON BEAM is set to transform defense strategy by offering precision targeting at a fraction of the cost of traditional missile systems.Brigadier General G, commander of the IAF's Aerial Defense Array, praised the technical skill and adaptability of the personnel involved and credited the achievement to strong cooperation between operational forces and Israel’s defense innovation ecosystem.

Growing Global Momentum for Laser Defense

Israel’s success has ignited international interest in laser-based defense systems as countries seek scalable, low-cost solutions to counter emerging aerial threats such as drones, loitering munitions, and rockets.

United States: Advancing multiple programs including HELWS (High Energy Laser Weapon System), DE M-SHORAD for mobile ground units, and ship-based systems like LaWS and HELIOS.

United Kingdom: Developing DragonFire, a precision laser weapon under the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL).china: Reported to be testing various laser systems under its PLA Strategic Support Force, including mobile and stationary variants.

russia: Claims to have developed the Peresvet laser system for anti-satellite and aerial defense roles, though few details have been confirmed.

india: Through its DRDO, is pursuing 10 kW and 100 kW class lasers as part of its directed energy weapons initiative to strengthen its air and missile defense infrastructure.

This new era of directed energy warfare underscores the global shift toward next-generation defense capabilities, with Israel’s operational use of combat lasers marking a pivotal moment in military technology.

Reference:

1. https://interestingengineering.com/military/high-power-laser-shoots-down-drones

Cite this article:

Keerthana S (2025), video: High-Powered Laser Takes Down Drone in First-Ever Real Combat Use, AnaTechMaz, pp. 367