Israel has confirmed it used high-powered laser systems to intercept Hezbollah drones during recent clashes along its northern border, marking the first time such technology has been deployed in combat against the militant group.

The Israeli Defense Ministry, along with the Israeli army and defense contractor Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, announced that the laser-based interception systems were operationally employed during recent hostilities in southern Lebanon. The technology, developed over decades by Rafael and the Defense Ministry’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development (MAFAT), was used by Israel’s air defense units to down hostile drones and other aerial threats.

The deployment marks a major milestone in Israel’s air defense strategy, as the laser technology is designed to complement existing missile interception systems while providing a faster and more cost-efficient response to airborne threats.

“Israel is the first country in the world to deploy a high-powered laser interception capability at a significant operational scale,” said Brig. Gen. (res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, head of MAFAT. “The vision of integrating laser technology into the battlefield became a reality during the recent conflict, with remarkable technological and operational success.”

Defense officials say the new laser systems were fast-tracked into service in response to a growing number of drone attacks from Hezbollah. The systems are part of a broader multi-layered defense network, which includes the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow missile defense systems.

A key component of the new technology is Rafael’s “Iron Beam,” a laser-based interception system utilizing proprietary adaptive optics. The Defense Ministry said the Iron Beam system is scheduled to be formally delivered to the IDF later this year.

“This is a proud moment for Israel’s defense industry,” said Dr. Yuval Steinitz, chairman of Rafael. “Iron Beam is a technological and operational breakthrough that will redefine the future battlefield. It’s a game-changer.”

Rafael CEO Yoav Turgeman noted that the system offers a strategic advantage by enabling precise, rapid, and low-cost interception of threats compared to conventional missile interceptors.

“The ability to neutralize drones and other aerial targets with a beam of light radically changes the economics and effectiveness of air defense,” Turgeman said.