Laser Weapons: Changing the Battlefield? A Look at the Future Through Recent Developments in Israel and the US

In recent years, with the growing threat of drone and missile attacks, laser weapons are attracting attention as a new defense system to replace conventional interception systems. Israel and the United States, in particular, are actively engaged in development, and are accelerating efforts towards deployment.

Israel's "Iron Beam": Cost Reduction and the Key to Multi-Layered Defense

Israel is actively developing "Iron Beam," a high-power laser weapon developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. In 2022, they announced successful high-power laser tests, intercepting unmanned aerial vehicles and mortars.

The biggest feature of Iron Beam is its low operating cost. While the conventional interception missile system, "Iron Dome," boasts a high interception rate, the cost per launch is high, at tens of thousands of dollars. However, Iron Beam is said to achieve a similar interception effect at a cost of only a few dollars per launch, significantly reducing the economic burden.

Israel positions Iron Beam as a complement to existing missile defense systems such as Iron Dome, Arrow, and David's Sling. By collaborating with these systems, the goal is to build a multi-layered missile defense network and enhance its ability to respond to various threats.

US Military Laser Weapons: Deployment and Further Evolution

The United States is also actively working towards the practical application of laser weapons. In 2023, the Army announced the successful deployment of the high-energy laser weapon "P-HEL" to overseas troops, successfully defending against drone attacks. This marked the first time the US military publicly acknowledged the deployment of laser weapons, a significant turning point.

P-HEL is based on the 20kW LOCUST laser weapon system developed by BlueHalo, and is reported to have actually shot down enemy drones in the Middle East.

In addition to P-HEL, the US military is developing and deploying various laser weapon systems. The Air Force operates a high-energy laser weapon system for base defense, the Marine Corps operates a compact laser weapon system, and the Navy operates the 60kW HELIOS laser weapon system installed on destroyers.

These laser weapons are being developed with a view to dealing with more advanced threats, including not only drones but also cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.

Challenges and the Future of Laser Weapons

While laser weapons have many advantages compared to conventional weapon systems, there are also challenges to overcome.

1. Influence of Weather Conditions: Laser beams are easily affected by rain, fog, and smoke, and their performance may deteriorate in bad weather.

2. High-Power Output and Power Supply: To deal with advanced threats, higher-power lasers are needed. This necessitates the development of high-capacity power supplies and efficient cooling systems.

3. Operation and Maintenance: Laser weapons are complex systems, and their operation and maintenance require advanced technology and expertise.

By overcoming these challenges, laser weapons have the potential to dramatically change the future of the battlefield. They are expected to be used not only as effective countermeasures against drone and missile attacks, but also in a wide range of fields, such as escorting manned fighter jets and providing ship air defense.

In the future, if technological innovation leads to more high-performance and practical laser weapons, it will undoubtedly have a significant impact on military strategy and weapons development.

Impact on Japan

Japan is also focusing on research and development of laser technology, and the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency is conducting research on high-power laser systems for future equipment.

Amidst the strengthening military power of neighboring countries, Japan will need to consider the introduction of new defense technologies such as laser weapons.