Israel successfully tests new laser missile defence system
- Recent trials saw it intercept mortars, rockets and anti-tank missiles, Defence Minister Benny Gantz says
- The new system will complement Israel’s costly Iron Dome, and is expected to be deployed on land, in the air and at sea
Israel’s new laser missile defence system has successfully intercepted mortars, rockets and anti-tank missiles in recent tests, Defence Minister Benny Gantz said on Thursday.
The Israeli-made laser system, designed to complement a series of aerial defence systems such as the costly Iron Dome deployed by Israel, will be operational “as soon as possible”, Gantz said.
The goal is to deploy the laser systems around Israel’s borders over the next decade, Gantz added. The tests took place last month in the Negev Desert.
Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said in February that Israel would begin using the system within a year, sending a message to arch-enemy Iran.
Gantz said the laser system would be part of “an efficient, inexpensive, and innovative protection umbrella”.