The Israeli Air Force’s Iron Beam laser air defense system is set to become operational in roughly nine months, Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Sunday during a visit to a Rafael Advanced Defense Systems facility in the Lower Galilee.
While touring Rafael’s Leshem Institute in the community of Rakefet, the minister delivered a stern message to Israel’s enemies, underscoring the nation’s expanding defensive and offensive arsenal.
“Our enemies should understand clearly: We possess multiple means to deliver a decisive strike. If they challenge Israel again, their hand will be severed,” Katz declared, flanked by Rafael executives and senior defense officials.
Developed by Rafael, the Iron Beam system uses laser technology to intercept rockets and drones, offering a significantly more cost-effective solution compared to traditional systems such as the Iron Dome. The Defense Ministry confirmed that the system will be deployed by the end of the year.
“The laser system represents the weapon of the future, capable of neutralizing entire categories of threats with exceptional and continually improving results,” Katz explained. “Israeli citizens deserve this protection.”
The announcement signals a strengthening of Israel’s multi-layered air defense network as the country faces ongoing regional security challenges.
Three new “Adir” F-35I aircraft arrive at Nevatim Airbase
Three new “Adir” (F-35I) aircraft, produced by Lockheed Martin, arrived at the Israeli Air Force’s Nevatim Airbase near Beersheva on Thursday, the military announced on Sunday.
The aircraft, bearing the IAF insignia, will be integrated into the 116th Squadron.
Since the start of the current war, the Adir squadron has accumulated more than 15,000 operational flight hours and completed thousands of sorties across various theaters, according to the IDF. The extensive operational experience gained has provided valuable insights, showcasing the aircraft’s versatility in a wide range of missions, the military added.
Originally designed to carry munitions in an internal weapons bay, the Adir has seen significant advancements during the war.
In a collaborative effort with Lockheed Martin and the F-35 Program at the Pentagon, a capability was developed at the IAF Flight Test Center at Tel Nof Airbase near Rehovot, enabling the aircraft to carry JDAM all-weather precision-guided bombs externally on its wings. This modification makes the Israeli Adir the only F-35 globally to conduct operational strikes with an external weapons configuration, greatly enhancing its strike capacity.