Israel Declares Iron Beam Laser Defense System Operational
Israel has confirmed that its Iron Beam laser defense system is now fully operational after completing final rounds of testing. The system, developed by the Directorate of Defense Research & Development in cooperation with the Israeli Air Force and defense company Rafael, was tested in southern Israel where it successfully intercepted rockets, mortars, and drones. Officials described this as the last stage before the system is delivered to the Israel Defense Forces for use.
In a symbolic step, the system’s name in Hebrew was changed from Magen Or (Light Shield) to Or Eitan (Eitan’s Light) in memory of Captain Eitan Oster, a 22-year-old Egoz Commando Unit officer killed in clashes with Hezbollah in October 2024. His father, who works with DDR&D, was one of the contributors to the Iron Beam project.
At the same time, the IDF released footage of recent strikes in Gaza City. The military reported targeting a Hamas weapons manufacturing site where several operatives were present. Over 150 targets in Gaza City have been hit in the past two days.
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- IDF: Hamas Turned Gaza City Into the Largest Human Shield in History
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According to IDF estimates, about 400,000 Palestinians have already evacuated Gaza City since the offensive began, compared to an original population of roughly one million. To assist in evacuations, the military first directed people to use the Rashid coastal road, but due to heavy traffic, a second evacuation corridor through Salah a-Din Highway was opened until Friday noon.
The Iron Beam represents a major advance in Israel’s defense capabilities. Unlike systems such as the Iron Dome that use interceptor missiles, the Iron Beam uses high-powered lasers, providing a faster and more cost-effective method to neutralize threats. This marks an important step in integrating advanced defense technology into Israel’s military strategy while addressing ongoing security challenges.
