Israel News
Report: Israel’s “Or Eitan” Laser Defense System Still Not Operational
Israel’s first laser-beam interception system was delivered to the IDF several months ago, but the integration process needed to make it operational has not yet been completed. According to the report, additional systems have not yet been prepared, and transferring them to the IDF could take several years. Defense officials are looking for solutions.
- שלומי דיאז
- | Updated
The “Or Eitan” laser system (Photo: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit)A delay in delivering and making the laser-based interception system operational was reported today (Sunday) by Ynet. According to the report, only one “Or Eitan” system, developed by Rafael, has been delivered to the IDF so far, about six months ago, and it is still not operational. The reason: the integration process needed to enable its use has not yet been completed.
The “Or Eitan” system was developed to counter non-ballistic missiles, drones, mortar shells, and UAVs at a range of up to approximately 10 kilometers. The system is intended to serve as an additional layer of defense within the aerial defense network.
No reason was reported for the delay in making the system operational. Senior Rafael officials explained that adjustments are needed before the system can become operational. In addition, according to the report, the delay in acquiring additional systems stems from a budget issue at the Defense Ministry.
