Israeli Defense Company Releases Revolutionary Laser Defense System for Ground Vehicles

Rafael’s ‘Lite Beam’ aims to enable ground vehicles to neutralize drones and other aerial threats.

By Shula Rosen, United with Israel

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the developer of Iron Dome, is unveiling Lite Beam, a system that enables ground vehicles to neutralize drones and other aerial threats.

The company will showcase its newest defense technology at the AUSA 2024 conference in Washington, D.C., from October 14 to 16.

The Lite Beam laser interception system is one component of the Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS), combining advanced detection and interception for maximum defense and security.

Rafael said that Lite Beam “offers advantages such as engagement at the speed of light, an unlimited magazine, and negligible cost per interception.”

On X, Rafael Advanced System posted, “Bringing “Star Wars” to Reality: Meet LITE BEAM, RAFAEL’s cutting-edge 10kW-class High Energy Laser Weapon System. Engineered for swift and accurate neutralization of aerial threats, including drone swarms, LITE BEAM delivers unparalleled precision and cost-efficiency, setting a new standard in advanced defense technology. LITE BEAM is a game-changing system enabling protection of forces in the land maneuver.”

Another component of the C-UAS is the Samson 30mm Remote Weapon Station (RWS), which operates on a 4-wheeled platform and provides flexibility and mobility to deal with UAVs and other airborne threats.

Rafael’s C-UAS is designed for dynamic operational environments with a goal to increase survivability and mission success.

Rafael’s approach is to provide defense in layers, with each component providing unique capabilities to allow adaptation to ever-changing battle conditions.

The company told the Jerusalem Post that Lite Beam had been tested, although it did not indicate whether Israel’s military had used the technology in Gaza or Lebanon.

Also at the conference, Rafael will discuss the success of its TROPHY Active Protection System (APS), which deals with heavier airborne threats such as anti-tank missiles, RPGs and UAVs.

“This latest presentation at AUSA highlights RAFAEL’s ongoing commitment to delivering advanced battlefield defense solutions. As global threats evolve, we continue to equip armed forces with cutting-edge technologies to ensure operational superiority in diverse and challenging environments,” said Mr. Tzvi Marmor, EVP & General Manager of the Land & Naval Systems Division.