At DSEI 2025, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems revealed the Iron Beam 450, its largest and most advanced high-energy laser system for air defense. This new version represents the company’s ongoing evolution of directed-energy solutions aimed at countering next-generation aerial threats.
The Iron Beam 450 introduces a host of performance improvements over prior models. Rafael stated that the system provides a quicker response time, greater range, and superior cost-effectiveness in neutralizing incoming targets. By combining enhanced optics with compact engineering, the new platform delivers advanced capabilities without sacrificing deployability.
The system derives its name from its 450-millimeter aperture, a leap forward from previous iterations of the Iron Beam series. It was presented alongside the Iron Beam-M and Lite Beam systems, offering a complete family of directed-energy solutions. The 450 also features a distinct gimbal-mounted structure, setting it apart from other models and reinforcing Rafael’s position at the forefront of laser-based air defense technology.
