Traditional missile defense systems have proven effective in recent years. Yet, as adversaries deploy increasingly sophisticated aerial threats, the high costs and limited ammunition supplies of interceptor-based defense demand an urgent shift. The solution sounds like science fiction, but it is already a reality: high-energy laser (HEL) technology. These systems offer a cost-effective, more sustainable alternative to missile-based interceptors, reshaping modern defense strategies.

Israel’s Iron Beam and the U.S. Navy’s HELIOS are two of the most advanced systems in this field. Both have undergone significant testing and development, marking a turning point in their nations’ defense doctrines.

Israel’s Iron Beam, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems, uses a high-energy laser system to intercept short-range rockets, mortars, and drones. Unlike Iron Dome, which relies on costly Tamir interceptor missiles, Iron Beam offers virtually unlimited “ammunition” at a fraction of the cost.

An average Tamir interceptor costs between $50,000 and $100,000 per launch. In contrast, a single Iron Beam interception costs approximately $2,000. Since October 7, 2023, more than 26,000 projectiles have been launched toward Israel. Of these, approximately 7,800 required interception. The financial burden of Iron Dome alone in this war has exceeded half a billion dollars.

Had Iron Beam been fully operational, it would have handled an estimated 55% of short-range threats, leaving Iron Dome to focus on long-range missiles. Instead of $520 million in interceptor costs, Israel would have spent $243.5 million—a 53% reduction.

The economic and strategic implications are enormous. While Iron Beam neutralizes drones and short-range projectiles, Iron Dome is reserved for long-range, high-altitude threats. This would extend interceptor stockpiles, lower costs, and provide greater operational flexibility in prolonged conflicts.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy has begun integrating its own HEL system for naval defense. The High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) has been installed on the USS Preble (DDG-88) and is designed to counter enemy drones and small boat threats.

HELIOS operates at 60 kilowatts and has the potential to scale up to 120 kilowatts. In late 2024, the USS Preble successfully tested HELIOS, shooting down an unmanned aerial vehicle in a live demonstration. This marked a major milestone in directed-energy weapon deployment.

The U.S. Navy, facing escalating drone and naval threats from Iran and China, sees HELIOS as a cost-effective, sustainable solution to protect fleet assets and reduce reliance on expensive missile interceptors. With further development, it could become a standard component of U.S. naval defense strategy.

Israel and the U.S. have a long-standing defense partnership, particularly in missile defense. Iron Beam and HELIOS signal the next evolution of that collaboration.

While weather conditions and power supply limitations remain hurdles, advancements in laser efficiency and targeting technology suggest these systems will become essential in modern warfare.

As drone warfare expands and missile threats grow, directed-energy weapons are no longer theoretical—they are the future of military defense.