Israel is bringing directed-energy weapons into the air, with Elbit Systems developing high-powered lasers (HPL) for military aircraft under a new defense contract.
According to available details, the company is working on two variants: the airborne XCalibur for fixed-wing aircraft and the Sting system for helicopters.
Operating at higher altitudes, the laser weapons would face less interference from humidity, rain, and dust, allowing them to detect and engage threats from above cloud cover before they reach their targets.
The systems are intended to counter low-cost aerial threats such as drones and loitering munitions, particularly in scenarios where missile-based intercepts are not cost-effective.
Elbit noted that the airborne weapons require extensive miniaturization, while maintaining precise targeting in motion demands a high level of accuracy.
With these challenges reportedly being addressed through continued development, the company said it is now preparing to collaborate with air forces on official integration.
Adapting to Modern Threats
The concept was presented during Elbit’s 2025 financial results briefing, where the company outlined its progress.
An animation shown at the event depicted an F-15I Ra’am equipped with an under-fuselage XCalibur pod intercepting a cruise missile and a Shahed-style drone.
Further scenes showed a UH-60A/L Yanshuf helicopter fitted with the Sting laser in its cabin, engaging and neutralizing loitering munitions.
Bezhalel Machlis, president and chief executive officer of Elbit Systems, said that while regional threats remain persistent, using high-cost missiles to counter inexpensive drones is not sustainable.
He added that high-power lasers are not confined to defensive roles and could serve broader purposes, though he did not provide further details.
The HPL system is currently in advanced development, with no official timeline for deployment disclosed.
