The futuristic age of laser weapons has officially crossed from concept to combat. In a world-first, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems confirmed that a high-energy laser weapon was used in active military operations to destroy multiple drones, not in a simulation, not in a test, but on the battlefield.
While the term “laser weapons” might evoke visions of sci-fi battles, their military evolution has been quietly underway for over six decades. Ever since the invention of the laser in 1960, defense researchers saw its potential. By the end of the Vietnam War, lasers were already being used in real combat scenarios not to destroy, but to guide and target.
Even offensive laser use isn’t entirely new. During the Falklands War in 1982, the British Royal Navy deployed early “dazzler” lasers, which temporarily blinded or distracted enemy pilots. These devices, however, did not inflict physical destruction.
What makes the recent development a watershed moment is the introduction of a high-energy laser weapon that successfully destroyed enemy drones in one case by literally burning the wings off.
“This marks the first time such a high-energy laser has ever been used on the battlefield,” said Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.
Though details are sparse, the laser engagement reportedly took place during Israel’s Swords of Iron operation, suggesting it happened near the Gaza–Egypt border. The specific system used has not been fully disclosed, but speculation centers on Iron Beam, Israel’s upcoming laser defense platform.
If it was Iron Beam, it would imply the deployment of a 100-kilowatt-class laser with an effective range of up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). Designed to complement Israel’s Iron Dome, Iron Beam is capable of disabling or destroying drones, mortars, and rockets at a fraction of the cost of conventional missile interceptors.
Even if this wasn’t the final version of Iron Beam, it likely represents a pre-production variant or parallel prototype within Israel’s Aerial Defense Array.
One of the key appeals of laser weapons is the economics of engagement. While intercepting a drone with a missile can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, a laser shot costs pennies per engagement and can fire near-instantaneously. There’s no reload time, no explosive warhead—just speed-of-light precision.
“It’s not just a demonstration anymore. This is a working combat tool,” reflects the broader message from the Israeli defense industry.
Source: Rafael
