Israel developing space lasers to attack above the Earth, Katz says

Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel is actively developing space lasers, aiming to establish the nation as a global leader in offensive space capabilities. Katz stated that this strategic goal is crucial for ensuring Israel's deterrence advantage and its ability to neutralize threats from adversaries.

“

One of the central goals which the prime minister and I set is that we are recruiting the best minds.

Katz's remarks expand on previous commitments to achieve dominance in space warfare. He emphasized the recruitment of top minds for this endeavor, noting that currently, no other country possesses the ability to conduct attacks in space. The development of space lasers is seen as a means to "attack, destroy, and all of the other matters, versus our enemies with large resources."

Israel is already a significant player in laser weaponry, having developed the land-based Iron Beam system, capable of neutralizing rockets, drones, and mortars. Reports indicate ongoing work on fighter jet-based lasers as well. The minister's statements appear to target Iran, especially in light of past Israeli strikes on Iranian facilities involved in space warfare capabilities during the 2026 war.

“

As of today, no country has the ability to mount attacks in space. We must be the leading country in the world with this capability.

While Israel pushes forward, the global landscape of space warfare is evolving. Both Russia and China have previously demonstrated capabilities by attacking their own satellites. Foreign reports suggest lasers could be used to destroy enemy satellites and manage space debris. Israel's Arrow 3 missile system can already target ballistic missiles in space, but concerns about debris are driving other nations to explore techniques like jamming or using lasers against satellites.

“

If we achieve this, it will ensure the advantage of deterrence, of the ability to attack, destroy, and all of the other matters, versus our enemies with large resources.