Israel has reached a significant milestone in its defense capabilities with the completion of its new laser defense technology system, the Or Eitan. Brigadier General (Res.) Dr. Danny Gold, Head of the Defense Intelligence Organization, announced the development at the DeepSenTech Conference, held in cooperation with the Yuval Ne’eman Science, Technology, and Security Workshop at Tel Aviv University.
“The development of the Or Eitan laser system is complete. We are preparing to deliver the first operational capability to the IDF on December 30, 2025. Work on future generations of the system is already underway,” Gold stated at the conference. This announcement marks a pivotal moment in Israel’s defense strategy, showcasing its commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance military capabilities.
Gold highlighted the transformative potential of laser systems in modern warfare, noting that the achievements during Operation Rising Lion were unprecedented. The operation revealed a range of powerful, groundbreaking Israeli technologies developed by the Defense Intelligence Organization over many years.
At the Defense Technologies and Infrastructures Research and Development (MTARD) Conference, Gold expanded on these announcements. “The Or Eitan laser system—expected to change the rules of the battlefield—is ready for delivery to the IDF after completing development and a successful series of capability tests. The first operational systems will be provided on December 30, 2025, while development of next-generation versions continues,” he said.
Gold also emphasized the evolving landscape of defense technology, where startups are increasingly competing with major defense companies—and succeeding. “In defense technology, the landscape has shifted. Startups now compete directly with major defense companies—and win. Recently, a group of startups joined forces, outperformed the major industries in an MTARD tender, and were selected to supply the IDF with an attack-drone array,” he noted.
This shift underscores the dynamic nature of Israel’s defense innovation ecosystem, where both established industries and agile startups play crucial roles. Gold reiterated the Ministry of Defense’s strategy to develop next-generation technological ‘surprises’ for future conflicts, leveraging the strengths of both major defense industries and innovative startups.
The conferences brought together hundreds of international participants, focusing on technological innovation shaped by lessons from recent conflicts. Notable attendees included Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram, Director General of the Ministry of Defense; Maj. Gen. (Res.) Prof. Yitzhak Ben-Israel, Chairman of the Cyber Research Center at Tel Aviv University; and senior representatives from Israel and abroad.
The completion of the Or Eitan laser system and the ongoing development of next-generation technologies highlight Israel’s proactive approach to defense innovation. As the country prepares to deploy this advanced laser system, it reinforces its position as a global leader in defense technology and strategic preparedness. The collaboration between major defense industries and startups ensures a robust and adaptable defense infrastructure, ready to meet the challenges of future conflicts.