Rafael Chairman Reveals Israel's Secret Technological Edge in Iran Conflict

Yuval Steinitz, chairman of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, detailed Israel's technological superiority in its conflict with Iran during an interview at Channel 14's Security Conference. He emphasized that Israel's scientific and technological advantage was decisive in the campaign against Iran, describing it as a historic conflict fought over distances of up to 1,500 kilometers and across multiple countries not directly involved in the fighting. Steinitz revealed that many of the advanced capabilities used remain classified, stating, "There were many incredible things, I can't detail them now, but in 20 to 40 years they may be revealed." He noted that such extraordinary capabilities were numerous and formed the majority of Israel's operational edge.

Steinitz also highlighted Israel's ability to act as a global power despite its small size, particularly in the Iran conflict. He praised the Iron Dome missile defense system as a "miracle," claiming it can intercept all threats, including cruise missiles and explosive drones, even during massive barrages of hundreds of missiles simultaneously. He noted the system's interception success rates approach nearly 100 percent, with costs per interception around $100,000, significantly lower than other systems costing millions per missile.

The chairman disclosed that Rafael's northern facilities were targeted by thousands of rockets from Lebanon during the conflict but sustained no significant damage and continued operations uninterrupted. He mentioned that prior to the conflict, Iran's Revolutionary Guards published a map marking 12 strategic Israeli sites for attack, with Rafael being the only defense industry site listed.

Steinitz also discussed Rafael's "Iron Beam" laser system, calling it a historic global breakthrough capable of intercepting missiles and rockets at long ranges using laser technology. Delivered to the Israeli Air Force at the end of 2025, the system is currently undergoing operational testing and has already been capable of interceptions for several months, though details of its deployment remain classified.

Concluding, Steinitz acknowledged Iran's scientific and technological capabilities but asserted Israel's superiority, stating, "We are better. Fortunately, we are better."