Israel May Transfer Two of the World’s Most Advanced Weapons to India: Why They Could Outclass Russia’s S-400

Tel Aviv / New Delhi: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Israel (February 25–26), India and Israel may finalize a landmark agreement to jointly develop anti-ballistic missile (ABM) defense systems. These systems are designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles, marking a major step in India’s indigenous air-defense capabilities, including its ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ program.

Sources indicate that the deal may also cover the joint development of other high-tech weaponry, including laser-based defense systems, long-range stand-off missiles, and drones. While no formal defense contract is expected to be signed during Modi’s visit, a security cooperation MoU could pave the way for a multi-year program worth over $10 billion.

Laser Air-Defense: A Game-Changer

One of the most advanced technologies Israel may share is its laser-based defense system, known as ‘Iron Beam’. Integrated into the Israeli military at the end of 2025, Iron Beam is designed to neutralize drone swarms and other aerial threats with pinpoint accuracy.

Key advantages of Iron Beam include:

• Near-light-speed engagement: Unlike conventional missiles, which take several seconds to reach their targets, Iron Beam attacks at 300,000 km/s, making it extremely fast.
• No ammunition required: The system operates using electricity, allowing it to intercept threats as long as power is supplied. It can simultaneously neutralize hundreds of enemy drones, reducing the risk of drone swarms.
• Low operational cost: While conventional interceptor missiles cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per shot, Iron Beam’s cost is only $2–3 per shot, increasing the financial burden on any attacking force.
• Pinpoint accuracy: The system can destroy the engine or explosive components of missiles mid-air. Unlike traditional systems, it can also intercept mortar rounds with minimal flight time.

India-Israel ABM Collaboration

India’s collaboration with Israel aims to create a robust ABM shield to protect critical cities, defense facilities, and key infrastructure from long-range missile threats. Israel’s proven track record includes the Arrow (long-range), David’s Sling (medium-range), and Iron Dome (short-range) systems, which have been combat-tested. For instance, in June 2025, Israel successfully intercepted 98% of ballistic missiles launched from Iran.

The deal could serve as a milestone in India’s strategic defense, integrating Israeli technology with India’s indigenous capabilities. By collaborating with Israel, India could enhance the Sudarshan Chakra program and significantly improve national air-defense resilience.

Why These Systems Are Considered More Advanced than Russia’s S-400

While Russia’s S-400 is a formidable anti-aircraft system, Israel’s laser-based defense introduces:

• Immediate threat neutralization at light-speed,
• Low-cost, reusable intercepts, and
• Enhanced defense against drones and small projectiles, which conventional missile systems often struggle to counter.

Experts suggest that these systems complement existing missile defenses, offering a multi-layered shield against diverse aerial threats, from drones to ballistic missiles.

India’s potential acquisition of these cutting-edge technologies signals a leap in its defense capabilities, making it one of the few countries with next-generation missile interception and laser defense systems.