Elbit Systems is developing an aviation version of the Iron Beam laser system for Israeli fighter jets

Israel launches laser weapons into the air: Elbit is working on an aerial version of Iron Beam

The Israeli defense concern Elbit Systems has begun developing an aviation modification of the Iron Beam laser missile defense system. While the ground-based version of the system is already being tested as part of the Iron Dome ecosystem, its technology is now being adapted for installation on board Israeli Air Force combat aircraft.

This step marks the transition from ground-based laser systems to aerial platforms capable of protecting not only stationary objects, but also aircraft themselves from drones, missiles and other small-scale threats.

How does the Iron Beam work and why is it important to get it into the air

Iron Beam is a directed energy system that uses a high—power laser to destroy targets at short ranges. It is effective against:

Tactical Drones (UAV)

Rockets (like Qassam)

of Small cruise missiles

On the ground, the system complements Iron Dome radars and missiles, reducing the cost of interception. In the air, its task is to defend the fighter and protect a group of aircraft from drone attacks, especially in conditions of intense electronic warfare, where traditional means can be suppressed.

Possible platforms: F-16, F-15 and F-Although Elbit Systems does not officially disclose which aircraft will be equipped with the aerial Iron Beam, analysts suggest that potential carriers may be:

The F-16 Barak is the backbone of the Air Force fleet and is being actively upgraded

The F-15 Baz is a heavy fighter aircraft with high energy output

The F-35 Adir is a fifth—generation stealth fighter where compactness and stealth are critical.

For the F-35, laser integration is particularly relevant: it will allow maintaining low radar visibility without using external suspensions, and at the same time increase survivability in the face of growing threats from drones.

Technical challenges and prospects

Transferring a laser system to an aircraft is a difficult engineering task. She demands:

A compact but powerful laser module

Efficient cooling system

Reliable energy source

High-precision vibration and speed guidance system

However, advances in laser miniaturization and the development of solid-state systems make the project realistic. According to experts, the first tests on the pilot platform may begin as early as 2026-2027.

US military aviation buildup on Diego Garcia Island indicates increased readiness for operations in the Indian Ocean

 New satellite images show a significant concentration of military aircraft at Diego Garcia Air Base in the Indian Ocean, including B-52 strategic bombers, KC-135 tankers, F-15 fighter jets and a C-5M heavy transport aircraft. There are two to four B-52H bombers at the base, as well as several B-2A Spirit strategic stealth bombers, the number of which has recently increased to six. To ensure their operation, C-17A and C-5M transport aircraft, as well as numerous KC-135 tankers, have been deployed to the base.

This build-up of aviation forces is associated with increased readiness for possible operations in the face of growing regional tensions, especially in the context of the escalating conflict in the Middle East and the threat from Iran. The United States uses Diego Garcia as a key outpost for strikes against targets in Yemen and potentially for operations against Iran. The deployment of modern strategic bombers and fighters demonstrates a demonstration of strength and readiness to respond quickly to threats in the region.

The Pentagon has not officially disclosed the details of the operations, calling them part of regular global exercises and threat deterrence measures. Nevertheless, experts note that the concentration of such powerful air forces at the base is a signal to Iran and other regional players about the seriousness of the United States' intentions to ensure security and stability in the Indian Ocean and the Middle East.

Thus, satellite data confirm a significant increase in the US military presence on Diego Garcia Island, reflecting the strategic importance of this base and the readiness of the US armed forces for possible large-scale operations in the region.

Boeing Enhances F-15 Advanced Eagle with IRST Infrared Sensor to Detect Targets in Passive Mode

The new Boeing photo shows an infrared sensor mounted in the nose of the F-15

The IRST sensor installed inside in front of the cockpit will provide the F-15 Advanced Eagle with a number of advantages.

IRST provides the pilot with an important additional way to detect and track other aircraft over significant distances. It is important to note that the IRST system is an alternative to radar in conditions of intensive use of electronic warfare (jamming), and since it depends only on the infrared signature of an enemy aircraft, It is not affected by the design features of stealth aircraft, which allow them to evade radars.

Moreover, the IRST is able to detect, track, and assist in combat with aircraft completely passively.