Amid a heavily strained regional environment, Iran has recently unveiled a new laser air defense system, reportedly deployed at one of its nuclear facilities to complement its existing defense capabilities. According to local media reports, the system, named Seraj (which translates to “Light”), was moved last Sunday near the uranium mines in the Fordow region.
The system was reportedly deployed as part of recent exercises conducted by Iran’s Air Defense Forces, which focused heavily on simulating enemy airstrikes targeting the country’s strategic facilities. While specific details about all the assets involved remain undisclosed, reports indicate that, in addition to the laser system, missile-based systems were also used to counter simulated threats. Both types of systems were said to operate under the direction and supervision of Iran’s Integrated Air Defense Network.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time Iran has showcased a laser air defense system amidst its tensions with Israel. In October of last year, images emerged showing a Chinese-origin system deployed in Tehran during a rare public address by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in which missile and drone strikes on Israeli territory were justified.
At that time, there was speculation that the system in question could be the modern Chinese Silent Hunter, which is also operated by the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces. However, its observable technical characteristics suggested a different system, featuring a central mast design and several lateral openings that differed in number and shape from the Silent Hunter. Western analysts began speculating that it might be a Shen Nung system mounted on a Dongfeng Mengshi 4×4 tactical light truck, whose form aligns more closely with the observed design.
Currently, it should be noted that such air defense systems are becoming increasingly common among the world’s leading armed forces, as they offer a more cost-effective alternative to missile-based systems for neutralizing enemy threats—particularly low-cost drones that can be mass-produced. In general, these systems operate by emitting a high-energy photon beam that rapidly generates extreme heat on the target, resulting in structural failure and the target’s destruction.
Among the various examples that can be cited, the most notable in this context is Israel’s new high-power laser system, Iron Beam, jointly developed by Rafael, Elbit Systems, and the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D) in Israel. This system, capable of generating between 100 and 150 kW of power, has already been selected by the Israel Defense Forces to bolster their air defense in a $200 million contract signed in October. Similar examples include the UK’s system tested in Welsh firing ranges last December and Japan’s system, presented during the 70th anniversary ceremony of the Ministry of Defense and the Self-Defense Forces, among others.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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