The system weighs under twelve kilograms, draws less than two kilowatts of power and can be mounted on vehicles, rooftops or fixed defensive positions.

By Hezy Laing

Esh Tech’s new Micro‑Laser Interceptor (MLI) has become one of the most closely watched defense technologies in Israel’s ongoing struggle against explosive drones.

The compact system, unveiled in early 2025 and now in active trials with the IDF, is designed to counter the surge in low‑cost, high‑lethality UAVs used by Hamas, Hezbollah and Iranian‑backed militias.

According to Esh Tech CEO Eyal Shapira, the MLI weighs under twelve kilograms, draws less than two kilowatts of power and can be mounted on vehicles, rooftops or fixed defensive positions.

The system is being tested in cooperation with MAFAT, the IDF’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development, as well as several infantry brigades operating along the northern and southern fronts.

The urgency behind these trials is clear.

Between 2023 and 2024, the IDF recorded more than 2,000 hostile drone incidents, including FPV suicide drones costing as little as $300 and quadcopters modified to drop grenades.

In the past two months alone, they have taken the lives of some 15 IDF soldiers.

Traditional interceptors such as Iron Dome and David’s Sling are optimized for rockets and missiles, not small drones flying at low altitude and low radar signature.

Even Rafael’s larger Iron Beam laser system, which successfully intercepted mortar shells and rockets in tests, is designed for higher‑power, longer‑range engagements rather than the close‑quarters drone attacks that infantry units face in Gaza and along the Lebanese border.

This is where Esh Tech’s mini‑laser attempts to fill the gap.

Early trial data shared informally by defense officials suggests the MLI can disable small UAVs at 300 to 500 meters, though performance drops in heavy dust, fog or rain—limitations common to all laser‑based systems.

The IDF has not yet confirmed deployment timelines, emphasizing that the system remains in evaluation and safety testing, with further trials scheduled throughout 2025.

Defense analyst Prof. Isaac Ben‑Israel, former head of Israel’s Space Agency, has argued that no single technology will solve the drone threat, noting that Israel will require a layered defense combining lasers, jammers, radar and kinetic interceptors.

Still, the MLI’s low cost per shot, portability and rapid development cycle make it one of the most promising additions to Israel’s evolving counter‑UAV arsenal.