Special to WorldTribune.com

TEL AVIV — Israel’s new laser was deemed capable of defending the country against mortar attacks.

The state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems asserted that its new Iron Beam was deemed effective in stopping a range of projectiles.

Rafael chief executive officer Yedidya Ya’ari said the tactical laser could coordinate operations with the Iron Dome, a kinetic interception system.

“The laser is designed to intercept weapons as simple as mortars, and it will be very effective,” Yaari said.

In an interview with Israel Defense magazine, Ya’ari said Rafael continued to develop Iron Beam in cooperation with Israel’s Defense Ministry. He said Iron Beam, unveiled at the Singapore Air Show in February 2014, underwent a feasibility study for Israel’s military.

“There is another phase of development that needs to be completed,” Ya’ari, who did not elaborate, said.

Ya’ari said Iron Beam has demonstrated its accuracy and could destroy mortars “like flies.” He said the laser would be introduced in the Israeli
military.

“The system is very impressive,” Ya’ari said.

  Iron Beam, Iron Dome, Israel claims Iron Beam laser can swat away mortar attacks ‘like flies’, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems