Progress in Laser Defense

Rafael to unveil short range laser defense for ground force

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. Announced on Tuesday that it will be showcasing its latest defense capabilities at the defense AUSA exhibition October 14-16 in Washington D.C., including a new Lite Beam laser-based interception system integrated into the Trophy multitasking defense platform.

While not as much of a watershed moment as when Israel can finally deploy its Iron Beam laser defense system, the Lite Beam is still a powerful example of Israel succeeding in using lasers, at least for short-range defense.

Defense sources told the Jerusalem Post that the Lite Beam’s operational capabilities have been proven, though they declined to disclose exactly when and how the IDF has used such capabilities in the field in Gaza or Lebanon.

The implication was that the Lite Beam would be effective against drones and possibly against mortars but would not shoot down most rockets or long-range missiles, which Israel eventually hopes the Iron Beam will do.

In general, laser defense technologies are viewed as a major part of future air defense because they would end the arms cost race in which Israel and other wealthy countries constantly waste huge amounts of money to protect themselves from weaker adversaries using low-attack cheap forms of threats.

The sources added that the Lite Beam has hard kill neutralization capabilities which can be integrated on any vehicular platform and operational capabilities, and that it also can be a component of the drone dome which utilizes both soft kill and jamming.

The advantage of Lite Beam

Rafael said that Lite Beam “offers advantages such as engagement at the speed of light, an unlimited magazine, and negligible cost per interception.” 

Further, Rafael stated that its “latest modular C-UAS solutions for force protection can operate alongside the Trophy Active Protection System (APS) in a combat formation to enhance ground maneuver capabilities across the battlespace.”

Moreover, it said, “The C-UAS Drone Dome solution, with its laser interception capability, can be integrated on 4x4, 6x6, and 8x8 wheeled and tracked vehicles to support counter-drone missions as well as other force protection missions.”

As part of its display, Rafael will introduce a unique modular Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) concept, combining advanced detection and interception technologies.

One of the defense systems on this platform is the Lite Beam laser-based interception system, but it also includes “the Samson 30mm Remote Weapon Station (RWS), on a 4-wheeled platform. These solutions provide maneuvering forces with robust force protection and flexibility against a wide range of airborne threats, including UAVs.”

Also, the Trophy’s “cutting-edge technology is operational on over a dozen platforms worldwide, including Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs), and Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). It has consistently demonstrated its adaptability and reliability in complex combat scenarios, providing comprehensive protection for vehicles and crews,” said Rafael.

"This latest presentation at AUSA highlights RAFAEL’s ongoing commitment to delivering advanced battlefield defense solutions. As global threats evolve, we continue to equip armed forces with cutting-edge technologies to ensure their operational superiority in diverse and challenging environments," said Mr. Tzvi Marmor, EVP & General Manager of the Land & Naval Systems Division.

https://www.jpost.com/arab-israeli-conflict/article-823780

Not mentioned in this article, instant targeting and they can be integrated with missile defense systems these lower power tools are capable of. When you fire a missile at a traveling missile targeting is so crucial, their is no leading the target with this, it can paint the target just as a smart bomb system is used. All the defensive missile has to do is lock on, it is fantastic technology.

Remember when democrats mocked Reagan's Strategic Defense Initiative as Star Wars saying laser based defense systems were impossible

US boosts Israel defense aid by $5.2 billion for laser tech, Iron Dome, David’s Sling

The Defense Ministry announced that the US has agreed to up its defense aid to Israel by an additional $5.2 billion, including a new focus on its laser development.

The $5.2b. is a significant increase from the $3.3 billion per year that the US committed to in a 10-year deal covering the 2019-2028 period.

The additional $5.2b. is focused on defense, including the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and an advanced laser system.

Defense Ministry director-general Maj.-Gen. (res.) Eyal Zamir, dispatched by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, engaged in a series of high-level meetings with US government officials to seal the deal.

An investment that will strengthen Israel's defense significantly 

“The director-general finalized the details of the comprehensive aid package with his American counterparts, securing a multifaceted agreement to support Israel’s defense needs,” the ministry said. 

“This substantial investment will significantly strengthen critical systems such as Iron Dome and David’s Sling while supporting the continued development of an advanced, high-powered laser defense system currently in its later stages of development.”

Further, the ministry said, “The professional meetings focused on enhancing strategic defense collaborations and continuing long-term and immediate procurement processes. These efforts aim to maintain Israel’s qualitative edge in the region and support ongoing military operations.”

https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-821919

The collaboration certainly benefits the United States as well. The high-tech weapons coming out of Israel are not only extraordinary, but battle tested as well. The iron beam will revolutionize missile defense and someday will probably have offensive applications.

The republicans in congress passed this aid over Biden Harris administrations objections. Defense Department can't give aid on its own. They actually have delayed giving it as much as possible

A good investment for US

Biden/Harris currently holding up MK-84 bombs, Apache attack helicopters, and Caterpillar D9 tractors, used to clear IEDs. Funding was appropriated. For months, Republicans have been trying to get these released. Kamala, in particular, is against sending these bombs, that would destroy Hamas and Hezbollah tunnel infrastructure.

Israel to have partial laser defenses by next year - Rafael chair

Senior Defense Ministry official Brig.-Gen. (res.) Danny Gold said Israel’s air-defense lasers, when fully deployed, will be able to shoot down the kind of drones Iran has been sending Russia to use against Ukraine.Speaking at the Artificial Intelligence conference at Tel Aviv University at the time, the MAFAT [Directorate of Defense Research & Development] director said his ministry was working on developing “the next generation of using lasers.”

He talked about multiple successful tests destroying rockets “with a very sophisticated laser-weapons system.... We have done the same for mortars, rockets and UAVs [unmanned aerial vehicles], like the Iranian UAVs they are sending to Ukraine. The same concept of UAV, we can shoot them down.”

https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-756455

Good news indeed, real solutions to real problems, you do not have to lead target, no ammunition resupply, just fuel for the generator. This will be a game changer.