Israel to arm helicopters and fighter jets with combat lasers

Israel is embarking on a significant technological leap in military aviation, planning to arm its helicopters and fighter jets with combat lasers. This strategic move by the Israeli Air Force is poised to fundamentally alter the tactical landscape of modern air warfare. The plan, detailed by the command in Tel Aviv, will unfold in two phases: attack helicopters will be equipped with laser systems within two years, followed by the full integration of this technology into fighter jets by the end of the decade.

Colonel M., commander of an F-15 squadron and former head of the Israeli military's Weapons Systems Development Department, explained the initiative to Ynet. "We have transferred laser technology to aviation. We are not talking about science fiction or Star Trek. In a few years, fighter jets will be equipped with lasers for both defensive and offensive missions," he stated. He drew a parallel between this technological advancement and the development of the renowned Iron Dome ground-based missile interception system. In his view, airborne lasers will add a crucial strategic dimension to the nation's security architecture, an area where Israel already holds a considerable global advantage.

The transition to this new weaponry is expected to accelerate, driven by persistent geopolitical tensions in the region. The first stage, scheduled for completion in two years, involves integrating and testing laser systems on military helicopter platforms. The second stage, targeted for the late 2030s, will see the complete implementation on new-generation fighter aircraft. Israel's pursuit of directed energy for military purposes is not new; the local defense industry has been developing "Iron Beam," a ground-based system designed to neutralize rockets, mortar shells, and drones using a high-power light beam. Economically, the advantage is substantial, as the cost per laser 'shot' is negligible compared to the prohibitive price of interceptor missiles used by Iron Dome. This technological revolution from Tel Aviv comes as numerous countries seek mobile solutions to counter asymmetric threats.

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We have transferred laser technology to aviation. We are not talking about science fiction or Star Trek. In a few years, fighter jets will be equipped with lasers for both defensive and offensive missions.