Israel has officially deployed its new SIGMA 155 self-propelled howitzer and Iron Beam laser system, enhancing its military capabilities with advanced artillery and laser defense systems, expected to replace older platforms and strengthen multi-layered air defense.
Germany has deployed a laser-based system near Munich Airport to detect and track unauthorized drones following recent disruptions to air traffic caused by drone sightings, with authorities taking additional measures to ensure safety and investigate the incidents.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is developing a laser system to deflect space debris and prevent collisions, addressing the growing problem of space clutter that threatens satellites and astronomical observations. Using telescopes at Mount Teide, the system aims to gently alter debris trajectories, though it currently only offers limited adjustments and faces challenges from Earth's atmosphere. This initiative could inspire global efforts to enhance space safety and sustainability.
During last year's conflict with Hezbollah, Israel secretly deployed a laser interception system, a compact version of Rafael’s Iron Beam, which successfully downed dozens of drones, enhancing security for civilians and strategic assets. The full Iron Beam system is expected later this year.
Amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, videos claiming to show Israel's Iron Beam laser system intercepting rockets launched by Hamas have surfaced on social media. Israeli security sources have deemed the videos fake but have not officially denied testing the Iron Beam system during the recent confrontation. The Iron Beam system, developed by Rafael, is designed to intercept various threats with laser precision and at a lower cost compared to the Iron Dome missile defense system. While the authenticity of the videos remains in question, the development of the Iron Beam system could potentially provide a significant advancement in Israel's defense capabilities.