Important Facts For Prelims
Israel’s New Laser Missile Defense System
- 15 Apr 2022
- 1 min read
Why in News?
Recently, Israel has successfully tested a new laser missile defence system, it has intercepted mortars, rockets and anti-tank missiles.
- Israel’s Iron Dome defense system has been a great success, with a 90% interception rate against incoming rocket fire.
What is a Laser Missile Defence System?
- The Israeli-made laser system, known as the "Iron Beam'', which is designed to complement a series of aerial defence systems, including the more costly rocket-intercepting.
- The Iron Beam's interceptions are silent, they're invisible.
- It is using Directed-Energy (DE) weapon system and can go a long way in providing aerial defence.
- A DE weapon is a system using DE primarily as a direct means to disable, damage or destroy adversary equipment, facilities, and personnel.
- Little is known about the laser system's effectiveness, but it is expected to be deployed on land, in the air and at sea.
- It is an effective, accurate, easy-to-operate tool that is significantly cheaper than any other existing means of protection.
