Israeli territory is regularly bombarded with mortars and homemade unguided rockets, and special means are required to defend against such threats. The Israel Defense Forces already have several missile defense systems using special interceptor missiles. As a supplement or alternative for such systems in the past and present, promising combat lasers are being considered. Several projects of this kind are known to exist.
According to the known data, Israeli specialists took up the subject of combat lasers in the mid-seventies. Shortly before this, the leadership of the army and industry discussed the prospects for the development of weapons, and in 1974 a laser weapons research program was launched. With the participation of the IAI and Rafael companies, the main aspects of such weapons were investigated and prototypes were built. In addition, it was possible to draw conclusions and determine the prospects for the entire direction.
A prototype of the TRW / IAI THEL complex. Photo US Army Space & Missile Defense Command
In 1976, the laboratory tested the first gas-dynamic laser with a power of about 10 kW. Later, the development of chemical-type systems began. Already these projects made it possible to determine the real future of the entire direction. First of all, experts have established that it will be possible to create a combat laser with sufficient characteristics only in the distant future - and only under favorable circumstances. For a certain time, the idea of laser weapons was abandoned.
Project "Nautilus"
In the mid-nineties, Israel conducted research in the field of tactical missile defense. It was planned to create new anti-missile systems capable of protecting the country from unguided enemy missiles. Since a certain time, several methods of intercepting ballistic targets have been considered. One of the proposals of this kind provided for the destruction of the target using a high power laser.
In July 1996, the United States and Israel agreed to develop a joint project for a promising combat laser complex. The project received the official designation THEL or MTHEL - (Mobile) Tactical High-Energy Laser. The "tactical high-energy laser" was also called the Nautilus. The goal of the project was to create a near-zone missile defense laser complex.
The United States was represented in the project by TRW (now part of Northrop Grumman), and IAI from the Israeli side. In accordance with the plans, already in 1998, the first "firing" was to take place, and a year later the finished complex could reach the state of initial operational readiness. However, the project turned out to be too complicated, because of which the work schedule was disrupted, and the finished model never entered service.
THEL in combat position. Figure Globalsecurity.org
The THEL / MTHEL complex was based on a chemical laser using deuterium fluoride. This product was supposed to develop a power of up to 2 MW, which, according to calculations, was enough to destroy artillery shells and unguided rockets in flight. At the same time, the laser itself needed a set of various additional equipment to ensure its performance and the solution of the assigned combat missions. The full set of components of the complex, according to the terms of reference, could be carried out in two versions: stationary and mobile.
During the first tests, a THEL-type missile defense system was used, made in the form of a stationary structure with a movable reflector on the roof. The laser installation could direct the beam in two planes and "fire" targets in any part of the upper hemisphere. The system of mirrors on the mobile installation was supplemented with optoelectronic systems for searching and tracking targets. Automation provided target tracking with simultaneous illumination with a combat laser. The transfer of thermal energy was supposed to destroy the target object.
The MTHEL project provided for the creation of a similar complex, but in a mobile version. All equipment for such a combat laser was to be installed on semi-trailers. Initially, it was proposed to use three such chassis, but later it was possible to abolish two of them. With similar combat qualities, the MTHEL complex had obvious advantages over the stationary system. He could arrive at the specified position in the shortest possible time and get ready for work.
The development of a laser combat complex for missile defense proved to be overly complicated, as a result of which the participants in the Nautilus project quickly got out of the established schedule. A prototype of a stationary complex was built only by the end of the nineties. Tests were able to start almost later than the specified date for achieving the initial operational readiness. Nevertheless, the project was nevertheless completed and brought to the testing stage.
Since 2000, the THEL prototype has regularly completed the assigned tasks. The tests began with aiming a laser beam at a stationary target and then destroying it. Then began working out the means of target tracking and beam guidance. The last stage of testing provided for combat "shooting" at various targets, including those simulating real threats. In accordance with the terms of reference, the product "Nautilus" was supposed to fight unguided missiles and artillery shells, so the appropriate weapons were involved in the tests.
Mobile laser complex MTHEL. Figure Globalsecurity.org
During the tests of 2000-2001, the THEL complex was able to successfully destroy 28 unguided rockets and 5 artillery shells moving along predictable ballistic trajectories in flight. The mobile version of the complex was not built and did not go to the landfill. However, the prospects for the MTHEL complex were clear even without testing it.
The checks of the complex ended with some success, but the new weapon did not interest potential buyers. So, the Israeli command criticized it for its complexity and high cost with very limited characteristics. In 2005 Israel withdrew from the (M) THEL project and refused to further support the work. Soon, the development of the Kipat Barzel missile defense system ("Zlezny Dome") began, striking targets with the help of interceptor missiles.
TRW / Northrop Grumman independently continued the development of the THEL project, resulting in a system called Skyguard. Interestingly, a few years after the breakdown of the Israeli-American treaty, Israeli officials began to mention the possibility of purchasing ready-made Skyguard systems for use in their missile defense system. However, the matter did not go further than talk, and as a result, the Kipat Barzel complex was adopted.
Iron Beam for the Iron Dome
The Iron Dome anti-missile defense complex was put on duty in 2011, and soon was able to show its capabilities. For all its advantages, this system is not without its drawbacks. For example, it cannot hit targets in the near zone with a diameter of 3-4 km, and therefore needs some kind of addition. Several years ago it became known that the "Dome" dead zone could be covered by laser systems.
In early 2014, the Israeli company Rafael presented for the first time a new project of the missile defense system called Keren Barzel (Iron Ray). It was proposed to build a mobile system on a car chassis, capable of hitting air targets of various types with the help of a laser beam. First of all, the targets of this complex were to be missiles, shells and mines. It also provided a high potential when working on unmanned aerial vehicles.
Complex "Keren Barzel" during combat work. Figure Rafael Advanced Defense Systems / rafael.co.il
The Keren Barzel complex, also known as the Iron Beam HELWS (High-Energy Laser Weapon System), includes two trucks with containers that can accommodate laser installations. A high-power solid-state laser (tens or hundreds of kilowatts) is used, mounted on a two-plane guidance system controlled by digital equipment. For target detection, its own radar station is provided. The command post is responsible for the interaction of the components of the complex.
The "Iron Ray" complex must independently search for dangerous objects, and then direct one or two lasers at them. Depending on the type of target, its destruction requires the transfer of heat energy within a few seconds. Simultaneous "shooting" of two lasers at one object is possible. The maximum range to the target was determined at 7 km.
In the spring of 2014, it was reported that the prototype of the Keren Barzel complex showed its capabilities and, during real tests, managed to hit over 90% of training targets. It was soon announced that it would be possible to bring the complex to the series and put it into the army within the next two years. However, later the situation changed. In 2015, the approximate date of entry into service was postponed to the beginning of the next decade. Subsequently, the Iron Beam HELWS laser missile defense system was repeatedly mentioned in the Israeli and foreign press, but new reports on the project's success were not published.
"Shield of Gideon" for the new brigades
This year, the first reports emerged suggesting that Israel may have another tactical-grade missile defense laser system. So far, very little is known about him, but the available information is also of interest. In particular, it can hint at the successful completion of one of the existing projects, or talk about the development of a completely new one.
Advertising "Iron Ray". Photo Oleggranovsky.livejournal.com
In the summer of this year, a ground force exercise was held in Israel, during which a new structure of the Gedeon-type brigade was being worked out. Such a formation includes tank, infantry and engineer battalions, as well as support units. As the press service of the Israel Defense Forces reported, several promising models were tested for the first time in the field during these exercises. Along with other products, the Magen Gedeon (Gedeon Shield) anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense complex was tested.
According to the available information, which is fragmentary in nature, the Magen Gedeon complex is an air defense and missile defense system to protect against various threats of the brigade operating on the front line. There are means for preventing or repelling an air strike, as well as protection systems against artillery or rocket fire, including the use of unguided rockets. According to various sources, the "Shield" includes anti-aircraft guided missiles, electronic warfare and even a combat laser. However, details of this kind are lacking. The characteristics of the laser also remain unknown - if, of course, it really is part of the complex.
In August of this year, the IDF announced plans for new models, including the Magen Gedeon air defense and missile defense system. At that time, an analysis of the past exercises was carried out, which was necessary for a full assessment of the actions of personnel and the effectiveness of weapons and equipment - including new air and missile defense systems. Based on the results of such an analysis, new decisions will be made that will determine the further development of the ground forces. First of all, it is necessary to assess the real capabilities of the Gideon-class brigade. It is also necessary to identify the need for the massive use of the "Gideon's Shield" complexes.
Secret and overt
It is known from open sources that at least two or three advanced missile defense systems have been developed in Israel, capable of hitting targets using a high-power directed laser beam. Two examples of such weapons have been demonstrated, at least in the form of advertising materials, and the third is still subject to controversy. The exact composition of the Magen Gedeon complex remains unknown, and it is still impossible to say with certainty whether there is a combat laser in its composition.
Means of the Keren Barzel complex are attacking an airborne object. Figure Rafael Advanced Defense Systems / rafael.co.il
It should be recalled that the Israeli armed forces are usually in no hurry to disclose all information about their new developments in the field of weapons and military equipment. Among other things, this means that somewhere in the secret Israeli bases there may be new combat laser systems, which the general public does not yet know about. However, another option cannot be ruled out: they do not talk about new complexes due to their absence.
One way or another, it is known for sure that the Israel Defense Forces have long shown great interest in promising laser weapons for various purposes. Systems of different classes are created and, at least, brought to the test. At the same time, the special interest of the command, for obvious reasons, is attracted by anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense systems capable of protecting troops or civilian troops from mines, shells and unguided missiles - an already familiar threat.
Unfortunately, so far Israel, apparently, cannot boast of any particular success in the field of laser missile defense. The first project of stationary and mobile laser installations (M) THEL did not suit the Israeli side, and its further development was carried out by the American industry. The Keren Barzel system received the highest ratings, but its developers faced significant difficulties and postponed the deployment time. Another complex, "Magen Gedeon", has already attracted the attention of specialists and the public, but it is not yet completely clear whether it belongs to the category of laser weapons.
Thus, at the moment, only missile systems are used as part of Israel's anti-missile defense. Other systems based on more daring ideas are not in service. However, some problems remain. Thus, the Keren Barzel laser complex is being created as an addition to the Iron Dome system, and until it is put into service, the latter remains without an effective means of protecting the near zone.
Nevertheless, Israel continues to work and in the foreseeable future may receive certain results. Over the next few years, we should expect reports of the appearance of completely new laser missile defense systems or the completion of work on already known projects. However, this will happen only in the future, but for now, the tasks of protecting the country are being solved not by futuristic and unusual, but reliable and proven missile systems.
