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JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel’s new laser missile protection system has efficiently intercepted mortars, rockets and anti-tank missiles in current exams, Protection Minister Benny Gantz mentioned Thursday.
The Israeli-made laser system, designed to enrich a sequence of aerial protection techniques such because the expensive Iron Dome deployed by Israel, might be operational “as quickly as potential,” Gantz mentioned.
The aim is to deploy the laser techniques round Israel’s borders over the following decade, Gantz added. The exams occurred final month within the Negev Desert.
Prime Minister Naftali Bennett mentioned in February that Israel would start utilizing the system inside a yr, sending a message to archenemy Iran.
Gantz mentioned the laser system can be a part of “an environment friendly, cheap, and modern safety umbrella.”
Israel has already developed or deployed a sequence of techniques meant to intercept every part from long-range missiles to rockets launched from just some kilometers (miles) away. It has additionally outfitted its tanks with a missile-defense system.
Little is thought concerning the laser system’s effectiveness, however it’s anticipated to be deployed on land, within the air and at sea.
The announcement got here close to the anniversary of the 11-day Israel-Gaza battle, wherein Gaza’s ruling Hamas militant group fired greater than 4,000 rockets towards Israel.
Israel mentioned its Iron Dome protection system has been an incredible success, with a 90% interception charge towards incoming rocket hearth. However officers say the system is pricey to deploy, and the brand new laser protection might be rather more cost-effective.
The Protection Ministry launched a brief video exhibiting what it mentioned had been profitable interceptions of rockets, mortars and an unmanned aerial automobile. The video, which was extremely edited and consists of music, appeared to indicate a laser beam popping out of a floor station, hitting the targets and smashing them into small items.
Thursday’s announcement got here as talks on restoring Iran’s tattered nuclear cope with world powers have stalled. Israel opposes the deal, saying it doesn’t do sufficient to curb Iran’s nuclear program or its navy actions throughout the area, and Israeli officers have mentioned they may unilaterally do what’s mandatory to guard the nation.
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