Are lasers the future of anti-drone warfare?
Al Jazeera
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lasers are emerging as a game-changing technology in anti-drone warfare, offering a cost-effective and precise solution to counter aerial threats. The Israeli Ministry of Defence has demonstrated the effectiveness of its Iron Beam laser system, capable of neutralizing drones, rockets, and artillery shells with remarkable accuracy. This advanced weapon was recently used to shoot down enemy drones, showcasing its potential as a next-generation defense tool. Other nations are also investing heavily in laser technology, with contracts totaling over $1.5 billion awarded to companies like Lockheed Martin, MBDA, and EOS.
The rise of cheap and numerous drone threats, particularly from groups such as Hezbollah and the Yemeni Houthis, has created a pressing need for affordable defense systems. Traditional anti-air weapons like missiles are too expensive to deploy against mass drone attacks, making lasers an attractive alternative. Technological advancements have made high-energy lasers more durable and reliable, enabling their practical use in modern warfare. Experts like Iain Boyd highlight that lasers offer a scalable solution for defending against large-scale drone threats, which traditional systems cannot match.
The global defense industry is experiencing a "gold rush" as nations invest in laser-based weapons. The U.S., UK, France, Germany, and others are collaborating on projects like MBDA’s DragonFire system and Rheinmetall’s German laser technology. Companies such as EOS, inspired by the Star Wars program, are repurposing satellite-tracking lasers to target drones. This shift underscores the growing importance of laser technology in addressing contemporary security challenges, particularly in regions where drone attacks are increasingly common.
The development of these systems signals a significant leap forward in military defense strategies, with implications for future conflicts. As nations prioritize cost
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/14/2026