Elbit Systems secures $200M contract for Iron Beam laser weapon
Posted: 21st December 2024
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Elbit Systems secures $200M contract for Iron Beam laser weapon Elbit
Systems secures $200M contract for Iron Beam laser weapon by Erica
Marchand Paris, France (SPX) Oct 29, 2024
Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT and TASE: ESLT), a prominent player in defense technology, announced it has been awarded a contract valued at approximately $200 million by the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD). This contract entails the supply of high-power laser systems designed for the “Iron Beam” air defense system, a cutting-edge project aimed at enhancing Israel’s defensive capabilities.
Under the agreement, Elbit Systems will provide its high-power laser solutions, specifically developed to bolster defenses against a range of aerial threats. These systems are a core component of the “Iron Beam” project and are accompanied by ongoing support services to ensure sustained operational effectiveness.
The “Iron Beam” laser-based defense system has been under development as part of Israel’s multi-tiered approach to air and missile defense. Known for its groundbreaking capabilities, the system aims to intercept and neutralize rockets, mortar shells, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using a powerful, high-energy laser. This contract with Elbit Systems represents a significant milestone in the project, reinforcing the country’s commitment to harnessing advanced technologies to counteract various airborne threats.
The concept of directed-energy weapons like the Iron Beam is designed to complement existing missile interception systems, such as the renowned Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems. While these systems have proven effective in intercepting projectiles with kinetic methods, the Iron Beam adds a strategic layer by utilizing laser technology. This approach offers advantages such as reduced per-intercept costs and the potential for quicker response times, making it particularly useful for low-altitude threats that can evade traditional defense systems.
Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, President and CEO of Elbit Systems, emphasized the company’s pride in its role in advancing the project, stating: “As Israel’s Laser Center and a global leader in high-power laser technology, Elbit Systems congratulates on the significant progress made in the ‘Iron Beam’ project and is proud of its contribution to its success. The capabilities developed at Elbit Systems represent a leap forward in future defense against various threats.”
Elbit Systems has established itself as a leader in high-power laser research and development, positioning Israel as a pioneer in laser defense. The Iron Beam is expected to operate alongside other defense systems, delivering a layered defense solution designed to neutralize multiple threats, ranging from short-range rockets to drones. With rising global interest in laser-based defenses, the technology developed in the Iron Beam project could signal a shift in how nations worldwide approach air defense, as more look to implement cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable solutions.
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Elbit Systems <https://www.elbitsystems.com/> Learn about laser weapon
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