Air Force
Armed Forces Structure
OVERVIEW
The air force arm of the Israel Defense Forces (Tsvah Haganah le Israel Heyl Ha'Avir
) is one of the largest and most capable air forces in the Middle East.
The primary missions of the Israeli air force include:









defend Israel's airspace and the IDF's area of operations;
achieve air superiority above the area of combat in a ground war;
attack strategic targets in enemy territory;
participate in combat in the naval theater;
carry out air transport operations;
provide air intelligence as part of the general intelligence picture;
carry out aerial photography mission for all IDF needs;
perform air search-and-rescue missions; and
assist civil aviation authorities in command, control and services.
Due to the integrated structure of the Israel Defense Forces, the air force is solely responsible for providing
a "protective umbrella" over the nation. Israel is also continuing the development of an anti-tactical ballistic
missile (ATBM) capability, centered around the Arrow missile defense system.
The air force (IAF) is organized into:
18
3
1
2
1
1
1
5
4
6
1
27
fighter/fighter ground attack squadron
tanker/transport squadrons
liaison squadron
electronic warfare/ELINT/SIGINT squadrons
airborne early warning squadron
anti-submarine warfare squadron
maritime surveillance squadron
flight training squadrons
attack helicopter squadrons
helicopter transport squadrons
unmanned aerial vehicle squadron
SAM batteries
Special Operations Forces
The Israeli air force operates a special air operations force known as Yechidat
Shaldag. Its mission is similar to the U.S. Army's 160th Special Operations Aviation
Regiment.
Air Defense Command
The Air Defense Command has been under air force control (officially) since
December 1970. Seventeen air defense battalions assist ground force operations
and protect air force bases.
PERSONNEL STRENGTH
The IAF numbers 34,000 active-duty personnel, including 24,500 conscripts (mainly
assigned to air defense). IAF reserves can mobilize an additional 55,000 personnel.
Equipment
(For additional information on the equipment listed below, search our Weapons
Database. All equipment is of U.S. origin unless otherwise noted. Aircraft are listed
by their IAF Hebrew names followed by their English translation.)
FEB07
APR08
OCT09
AUG11
25
29
7
28
#
90
20
52
52
52
25
27
7
28
#
90
16
52
49
~85
25
27
7
28
#
89
16
52
49
102
25
27
7
28
#
89
16
52
49
101
39
39
39
39
#
#
#
#
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
5
6
6
6
#
#
#
#
2
1
2
N/A
N/A
2
N/A
2
3
2
N/A
N/A
2
N/A
N/A
3
2
3
N/A
3
2
N/A
N/A
3
2
3
AIRCRAFT
Fighter/Attack
F-15I Ra'am
F-15A Baz
F-15B
F-15C/D Akef
F-4 Kurnass 2000 (U.S. F-4E)
F-16A Netz (one crashed Sept. 2009)
F-16B Netz
F-16C Barak
F-16D Brakeet (incl. SEAD variant)
F-16I Soufa
(102 on order at 2 per month)
A-4N/A-4H Ahit
(200+ in reserve)
Electronic/Reconnaissance
RF-4E Oref tactical
F-4E(S) Oref strategic
RC-12D Kookiya ELINT
(U.S. C-12 Huron)
RC-707-320 Barboor COMINT/SIGNT
EC-707 Chasidah ELINT
EC-130 Aya ELINT
IAI201 Arava ELINT/COMINT (Israel)
C-130H ELINT
Nahshon AEW (G550 w/ Phalcon)
BN-2 Islander
B-707 Phalcon ELINT/ECM
3
3
Gulfstream G-500 Shavit ELINT
Maritime Patrol
IAI1124 Seascan (Israel)
3
3
3
3
2
#
#
#
5
12
4
5
#
6
5
12
4
#
5
6
5
12
11
1
1
N/A
4
5
9
5
12
22
1
22
4
8
4
15
4
15
4
#
22
22
22
#
26
26
26
26
43
43
39
#
2008)
17
17
17
17
20
40
#
48
48
39
39
38
33
16
10
16
10
16
10
#
10
14
43
14
34
14
34
14
34
34
55
55
55
41
24
41
24
41
24
38
49
7
7
7
7
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
N/A
N/A
#
22
#
#
#
N/A
N/A
#
22
#
#
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
22
#
4
Transport
Boeing 707-320 R'em (Unicorn)
KC-707 Saknayee (Pelican)
C-130E/C-130H Karnaf (Rhino)
IAI202 Arava (Israel)
KC-130H Karnaf (Rhinoceros) tanker
Beech 80 Queen Air
Beech A36 Hofit (Bonanza)
C-47 Skytrain
TB-21 Pashosh (Trinidad)
Utility/Communications
Super King Air 200 utility
Do 28 B1 Agur (Crane)
(German Skyservant)
Cessna U206C/D/E 206 Choheet (Quail)
Training
TA-4H/J Ahit (Vulture)
(A-4 Skyhawk)
CM170 Zukit (Thrush)
(France Magister) (one crashed Oct.
Grob 120
T-6A
Helicopters
AH-64A/D Peten attack
(U.S. Apache)
AH-1F/AH-1Q/AH-1S Tsefa
(U.S. Cobra) (one crashed Sept. 2008)
AH-1E Cobra training
UH-60A/D Yanshuf utility
(U.S. Black Hawk)
UH-60L transport
Bell 206B Saifan/ Bell 206L
(U.S. OH-58 Kiowa)
Agusta-Bell 212 Anafa transport
(U.S. UH-1N Huey)
CH-53 2000 Yas'ur heavy lift
S-70A-50 Peacehawks
(UH-60 Blackhawk)
AS 565SA Atalef (French Dauphin)
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles/RPV
Samson
Delilah
Firebee 147 (Shadmeet)
Scout (Zahavan)
Searcher (Chugla) (+22 in store)
Hunter (Cachlileet)
Hermes 450
#
#
#
#
#
Heron
Harpy
#
#
#
MISSILES
Strategic
Jericho I/Jericho II
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
Air-to-Air
AIM-120A/B AMRAAM
AIM-7F Lahava (U.S. Sparrow)
AIM-7F Lahava/AIM-7M Shalhevet (U.S.
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
AIM-9L Lulav/AIM-9M (U.S. Sidewinder)
AIM-9P Lapeed (Sidewinder)
Shafrir I/Shafrir II (France)
Pi'ton III/Pi'ton IV (Israel)
R530
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
3
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
Sparrow)
#
#
#
#
#
Air-to-Surface
AGM-45A Shrike (Egrof Barzel)
AGM-45B Shrike (Egrof Nechoshet)
AGM-62B Walleye (Deker)
AGM-65A/AGM-65B Maverick (Kidon)
AGM-65D Maverick (Romach)
AGM-78D Standard
AGM-88A HARM (Ke'laa)
AGM-114A Hellfire I anti-tank
(Kardum)
AGM-114K Hellfire II anti-tank
(U.S.)
BGM-71A TOW 2 P'teel/Cord
BGM-71C Improved TOW
Peeg'yon/Dagger
BGM-71D TOW II Pit'yon/Bait
Popeye I (Magal)(Israel)
(U.S. AGM-142 Have Nap)
Popeye II (Makevet)(Israel)
(U.S. AGM-142 Have Nap)
Gabriel III AS (Israel)
Air Defense Force
(For additional information on the equipment listed below, search our Weapons
Database. All equipment is of U.S. origin unless otherwise noted.)
FEB07
APR08
OCT09
AUG11
EQUIPMENT
#
200
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
MISSILES
Surface-to-air Missiles
MIM-104 Patriot SAM (launchers)
MIM-23 Improved Hawk (launchers)
FIM-92A Stinger
18
18
18
#
Anti-Ballistic Missiles
Arrow batteries (9 launchers)
48
48
48
48
#
#
35
N/A
N/A
105
N/A
N/A
105
N/A
N/A
105
#
60
#
60
#
60
#
60
150
150
150
150
#
150
#
#
150
#
#
150
#
#
150
#
#
455
455
455
(U.S./Israel)
PAC-2 batteries
AIR DEFENSE VEHICLES
MIM-72C Chaparral (8 batteries)
MIM-72D Improved Chaparral
M163 Vulcan ADS Vulcan/Stinger
combined launcher
Chaparral/Stinger combined launcher
23-mm ZSU-23-4 quad (Russia)
ARTILLERY
40-mm L/70 towed (w/Super Fledermaus
radar)(Sweden)
37-mm M1939 anti-aircraft (Russia)
23-mm ZSU-23 (Russia)
20-mm TCM-20 twin towed/SP
anti-aircraft
(w/EL-M2106 point defense radar)
20-mm M167 Vulcan ADS towed
Deployment
The Israeli air force operates from the following locations:
IAF
Headquart
ers
(111th
Sqn)
Tel Aviv
Reconnais
sance
Intellige
nce HQ
Tel Aviv
Joint
IDF/Air
Defense
Corps HQ
Sirkin
C4I
Intellige
nce
Center
Tel Aviv
C4
Combat
Center
(333rd
Sqn)
Tel Aviv
Air
Defense
Corps C4
Center
(516th
Sqn)
Tel Aviv
Threat
Detection
C4 Center
(517th
Sqn)
Tel Aviv
Special
Forces C4
Center
(545th
Sqn)
Tel Aviv
Attack
Squadrons
69th Sqn
(F-15I)
Hatzerim
107th Sqn (F-16I)
116th Sqn (F-16A, F-16B)
119th Sqn (F-16I)
Hatzerim
Nevatim
Ramon
Attack Helicopter Squadrons
113th Sqn (AH-64D)
160th Sqn (AH-1E, AH-1F)
190th Sqn (AH-64A)
Ramon
Palmachim
Ramon
Air Defense/Attack Squadrons
101st Sqn (F-16C)
105th Sqn (F-16D)
109th Sqn (F-16D)
110th Sqn (F-16C)
115th Sqn (F-16A, F-16B)
117th Sqn (F-16C)
140th Sqn (F-16A, F-16B)
201st Sqn (F-16I)
253rd Sqn (F-16I)
Hatzor
Hatzor
Ramat David
Ramat David
Ovda
Ramat David
Nevatim
Ramon
Ramon
Air Defense Squadrons
106th Sqn (F-15B, F-15C, F-15D)
133rd Sqn (F-15A, F-15B, F-15D)
Tel Nof
Tel Nof
Transport Squadrons
103rd Sqn (C-130E/H)
131st Sqn (KC-130H)
Nevatim
Nevatim
Helicopter Transport Squadrons
123rd Sqn (S-70A)
124th Sqn (S-70A-50)
Hatzerim
Palmachim
Maritime Helicopter Squadron
193rd Sqn (AS565MA)
Ramat David
Assault Transport Squadrons
114th Sqn (CH-53A/D)
118th Sqn (CH-53A/D)
Tel Nof
Tel Nof
Tanker/Transport/EW/ELINT Squadrons
120th Sqn (B707, IAI1124)
122nd Sqn (G550)
131st Sqn (C-130E/H)
Nevatim
Nevatim
Nevatim
Liaison/Utility Squadrons
100th Sqn (Beech 200)
135th Sqn (Beech 200)
Sde Dov
Sde Dov
Training Squadron
(CM-170, DA-18, AB-206 and MD-500)
Flight Test Center (F-15I, F-16A/B/C/D)Tel Nof
UAV Squadron
166th Sqn (Hermes)
200th Sqn (Heron)
210th Sqn (Heron Eitan)
Palmachim
Palmachim
Tel Nof
Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile Bases
150th Sqn (Jericho IRBM)
Kefar Zekharya
199th Sqn (Jericho IRBM)
Kefar Zekharya
248th Sqn (Jericho IRBM)
Kefar Zekharya
Air Defense Units
167th Brigade
168th Brigade
169th Brigade
170th Brigade
171th Brigade
Flight Training School
102nd Sqn (A-4N)
Sirkin
(central region)
Stella Maris
(northwest region)
Shdema
(southeast region)
Mashavey Sade
(southwest region)
Ramot Naftally
(northeast region)
Hatzerim
Hatzerim
The base at Nevatim opened in August 2008. It is the largest air base in the Middle
East.
Issues
Israel has a significant number of surplus aircraft that are being offered for sale.
In September 2008, a Cobra attack helicopter crashed during a training mission near Afula in northern
Israel, killing two pilots and prompting the air force to ground the aircraft during the investigation.
A Zukit crashed during a training flight in October 2008, killing the cadet and flight instructor and
prompting all of the aircraft to be temporarily grounded.
The F-16I fleet was temporarily grounded in September 2009 after an engine fouled during a routine
training flight and the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing.
An F-16A crashed during a routine training exercise in September 2009. The pilot, Assaf Ramon, 21, was
the son of the late Israeli astronaut Ilan Ramon, who died when the Columbia shuttle exploded in 2003.
In July 2010, an Israeli CH-53 helicopter crashed in Romania, killing six Israelis and a Romanian. The
Israeli air force grounded all CH-53s in the wake of the crash.
In November 2010, an Israeli F-16I crashed in the Negev desert, killing both the pilot and the navigator.
The crash was the result of human error.
Plans and Programs
The Israeli air force put the first of its new airborne early warning system planes
into service in the spring of 2008. The Eitam aircraft, which is based on a Gulfstream
G550 business jet, features the Phalcon radar system. The new plane will replace
Israel's Boeing 707 AEW aircraft.
Israel ordered 102 F-16I fighters from the U.S. in 2003, with the last models arriving in late 2008. Some of
the F-16A /Bs have been placed in reserve. Training flights were temporarily suspended in March 2008
when a suspected carcinogen was found in the cockpit of a few U.S.-made F-16Is, but delivery of the
aircraft was not halted.
Israel plans to replace its C-130E Hercules transport aircraft with the C-130J variant, to be used for longrange missions and precision airdrops. Up to nine aircraft were ordered in August 2008 for $1.9 billion. An
order for another C-130 -J-30 was placed in April 2011. Three additional aircraft are being purchased by
the United States as part of a foreign aid package. The first was ordered in April 2010 and is slated to be
delivered in the spring of 2013. The next two aircraft should be handed over in late 2013 and early 2014.
Some C-130Hs may also be upgraded to fly until 2025.
The air force's Shachaf (Sea Scan) surveillance seaplanes received a complete upgrade in late 2010. A new
observation system was installed on the aircraft as part of a modernization designed to keep the planes
operational for several more years.
Israel requested to purchase KC-767 refueling aircraft from the United States, but the order was refused in
August 2008.
In October 2008, the air force decided to abandon U.S.-made cluster bombs in favor of the M85 cluster
bomb, made by Israel Military Industries (IMI). The decision was reportedly made after the U.S. munitions
failed to explode 30 to 40 percent of the time during the 2006 Lebanon War.
In October 2008, the air force announced the development of a non-asphalt substance that can restore
damaged runways within minutes, allowing fighters to take off and land during enemy missile and rocket
strikes.
The air force announced in December 2008 that it was looking to replace its aging A-4 Skyhawk aircraft,
which were first acquired in 1967 before being phased out in the early 1980s. They are used as trainers or
electronic warfare aircraft. Possible replacements include older F-16s, U.S. T-45s, South Korean T-50s or
Italian trainers.
Israel has long expressed interest in purchasing the F-22 , but so far the U.S. has declined to sell the aircraft
to any foreign powers.
The air force purchased in August 2009 over 100 LJDAM (laser joint direct attack munition) kits from the
United States to convert unguided bombs into "smart" weapons. The kit includes a tail section with a GPS
device; body improvements for additional stability and lift; and a laser seeker to improve the bomb's ability
to accurately engage moving targets.
The Israeli air force is interested in procuring acquiring micro-satellites. The satellites would give the
military more versatility, while enabling main space assets to continue their intelligence-gathering and
strategic operations.
UAV Programs
In late 1007, Israel began forming its unmanned aerial vehicles into a three-tiered
force based on the medium-altitude Hermes 450, the Heron 1, the high-altitude
Eitan, as well as a mini-UAV soon to be selected. The Searcher 2 is slated to be
phased out.
To that end, Israel ordered new Hermes -450 UAVs from Elbit Systems in November 2007. Elbit will also
upgrade existing Hermes UAVs as part of the three-year program.
The long-endurance Eitan UAV, believed to be the largest UAV in the world, was unveiled by the Israeli
air force in early 2010. The UAV, which has an 85-foot wingspan, can remain in the air for more than 24
consecutive hours, reach an altitude of 43,000 feet and carry payloads of about one ton.
Israel ordered miniature Skylark I LE UAVs as part of a $40 million deal in January 2009 for all Israeli
ground forces battalions, as well as training and logistics support. Delivery is expected to take a few years.
In late 2009, the Israeli air force and the army's ground forces command put out a request for proposals for
a stealthy unmanned aerial vehicle capable of flying undetected in combat zones. The UAV should be able
to operate at relatively low altitudes of 3,000 feet and be capable of flying for up to 10 hours at a time.
In 2010, Israel awarded Elbit Systems a $50 million contract to provide its Hermes 900 unmanned systems
along with some Hermes 450 systems to the military.
In late 2010, the Israeli air force activated its first unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) squadron equipped with
Eitan aircraft at the Tel-Nof air force base.
Helicopter Acquisition and Modernization
The Israeli air force is testing an indigenously upgraded version of the Chinook
heavy-lift helicopter, the CH-53-2000. The Yas'ur (Clearwater) 2025 program is
designed to keep the helicopters in front-line duty through 2025. The first heavy-lift
helicopter prototype was unveiled on November 2007. The helicopters will be
equipped with new avionics architecture, rewired electrical power system and an
automatic hovering system that allows it to maintain a position in situations where
the crew has limited visual recognition points.
Military officials test-flew U.S. Marine V-22 tilt-rotor Ospreys in North Carolina in May and June 2011.
There are no known plans to acquire the aircraft.
The air force announced in April 2009 that it was negotiating with Boeing to upgrade four AH-64A Apache
helicopters to the AH-64D Longbow standard. It was also negotiating the purchase of six new AH-64Ds.
The United States later blocked the sale.
The air force acknowledged in July 2011 that it was considering an active protection systems for its
helicopters similar to the Trophy system to protect tanks.
Joint Strike Fighter
In May 2008, Israel formally requested to purchase 25 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters
from the U.S. for US$80 million each, with options for another 50 jets. The planes
will be used to replace the F-16 fleet. The first aircraft was scheduled for a 2014
delivery, although Israel reportedly asked that be bumped up to mid-2012.
The Pentagon approved the sale in October 2008. At least 25 of the aircraft will be the F-35A conventional
takeoff variant. Some of the remaining jets may be of the F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing design. A
subsequent request to install some Israeli parts in the fighters jeopardized the deal, as the U.S. was
concerned such a move would grant Israeli access to classified systems.
Disputes over the price of the fighter and the issue of Israeli systems led the air force briefly to consider
purchasing Boeing's F-15 Silent Eagles as an alternative to the Joint Strike Fighter . Boeing told Israel in
April 2009 that its plane could be ready as early as 2011.
In particular, Israel requested access to classified computer systems for repair purposes. Israeli officials
argued that in the event of war, its air force could not wait for computers to be shipped to and from the U.S.
By June 2009, the Defense Ministry and the Pentagon announced an understanding. Israel reported that it
had found a way to bypass the classified mainframe when conducting repairs and installing new systems.
An official letter of request for 25 aircraft was sent in that same month, with an option for 50 more, similar
to the original May 2008 request.
Israel announced in September 2009 that price considerations might reduce the initial order to 20 aircraft if
the unit cost were to be significantly more than US$100 million. It was also indicated that an early 2010
contract target date would probably not be met.
Delays in the program mean that the United States would not receive its first fighter until 2015, which
would push back the delivery date for other countries interested in purchasing the jet. Because of the delay,
Israeli air force officials called for a review of the F-35 procurement plan.
In mid-2010, Defense Minister Ehud Barak approved the purchase of 20 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters for the
Israeli air force. The jets are scheduled for delivery between 2015 and 2017. The deal is worth an estimated
US$2.7 billion. Israel signed the agreement for the aircraft in October.
Missile Defense Program
In response to the threat of rocket attacks from Hezbollah, Hamas and Iran, Israel
has launched an ambitious missile shield program to protect the nation from a range
of projectiles, from extremely short-range to long-range weapons.
Testing of the Arrow 2 missile defense system, which includes the Green Pine radar system, began in early
2008. It passed its 18th test in March 2009. The Arrow , which is being developed in conjunction with the
United States, is designed to defend against long-range ballistic missiles similar to the Iranian Shahab 3. It
is expected to deploy by 2012.
The U.S. has also pledged to assist in development of the Arrow 3, which will be a longer-range version of
the current Arrow system. The system should become operational in 2012 or 2013.
David's Sling is designed to counter a broad range of projectiles, from very short-range to medium-range
missiles. It is being developed in conjunction with the U.S. and expected to enter service in 2012 or 2013.
The air force is considering it as a replacement for the 50-year-old MIM-23 Hawk surface-to-air missile
systems.
The $200 million Iron Dome system, designed for protection against short-range rockets, was successfully
tested in July 2008. It passed critical tests in March 2009, July 2009, January 2010, and July 2010.
A new battalion to operate the Iron Dome stood up in August 2009. It is a part of the air defense division,
which also operates Arrow . The first Iron Dome battery was deployed outside of Beersheba in March
2011. A second system, which was deployed near Ashkelon the following month, destroyed two rockets
that were fired from the Gaza Strip. There are plans to deploy several more batteries through 2013.
The Magic Wand system, which is designed to complement the short-range Iron Dome , could be deployed
as early as 2013 to protect against short-range and cruise missiles.
Israel also tested and deployed a prototype laser system near Gaza in July 2008 to intercept rockets, mortars
and missiles at significant ranges. The Laser Air Defense System (LADS) could also be used as a way to
defend against Kassam rockets and mortars.
Israel struck a deal with the United States in August 2008 to deploy an X-band radar to guard against a
potential missile attack from Iran. The radar can track medium- and long-range radars in space and target
incoming missiles for anti-missile systems. It is manned by U.S. personnel.
The Israeli Defense Ministry said in April 2009 that it would like to buy the U.S. Vulcan -Phalanx missile
defense system as a front-line system to protect southern Israel from rocket and mortar attacks.
Israel's Nuclear Program
Much secrecy surrounds Israel's nuclear weapons program. The country will neither
confirm nor deny its possession of nuclear weapons. There is, however, abundant
evidence of its existence. According to a November 1994 report, nuclear research
and development, as well as testing and storage of tactical and strategic nuclear
weapons, takes place at seven locations within Israel, including Dimona, Soreq,
Palmikim Missile Test Range, Yodefat, Be'er Yaakov, Kefar Zekharya and Eilabun.
The following is derived from multiple sources:
Dimona, located in the Negev Desert, is the site of a nuclear reactor and Israel's main plutonium processing
plant. Soreq is also home to one of Israel's nuclear research reactors and has extensive nuclear weapons
research and development facilities. Located just north of Soreq is the Palmikim Missile Test Range where
delivery systems such as the Jericho SSM are flight-tested. A Jericho II was test-fired at the Palmikim
range on Sept. 14, 1989. Yodefat, east of Haifa, houses nuclear weapons assembly and dismantling
facilities, while Be'er Yaakov is an assembly point for Jericho II SSMs. Eilabun and Kefar Zekharya are
both nuclear weapons storage sites.
According to reports, Kefar Zekharya contains a number of Jericho II nuclear-tipped ballistic missile sites.
Estimates suggest that up to 50 nuclear-tipped Jericho IIs are bunkered at this location. During the Gulf
War, a Jericho II was test-fired from this site, hitting 1,300 km away at a point south of the Greek island of
Crete.
The Arrow surface-to-air missile and Jericho II are assembled at Be'er Yaakov, while warhead construction
is carried out at Rafale 's Division 20 at Yodefat.
LATEST UPDATE: 1 August 2011
© 2011 Military Periscope. All rights reserved. Redistribution of content is prohibited without prior consent of Military Periscope.
-Sincerely,
Marko Primorac
Tactical Analyst
[email protected]
Tel: +1 512.744.4300
Cell: +1 717.557.8480
Army
Armed Forces Structure
OVERVIEW
Israel Defense Forces ground formations are organized into:
3 regional commands, each with
2 regular divisions
1-2 regional divisions
2 regular brigades
2 armored divisions, consisting of
15 brigades
4 infantry divisions, consisting of
12 brigades
8 paratroop brigades
4 artillery regiments
8 self-propelled artillery regiments
Editor's Note: The structure of IDF formations varies according to operational situations.
Given the integrated structure of the IDF, there is no separate ground forces aviation wing. Close air
support for the ground forces is provided by the Israeli air force. Cobra and Apache helicopter gunships are
used for close-fire support and several types of fixed-wing transports are designated for paratroop
operations.
Special Forces
Israel's military operates a number of counter-terrorist and special operations units, including naval
commandos (See Israel Navy), Mista'arvim, Sayeret Mat'kal, Ya'ma'm, Ya'ma's and Yechidat Shaldag.
Mista'arvim ("The Arabists")
This unit was formed to infiltrate and neutralize leaders of the Palestinian uprising. Operatives disguised as
local Arabs frequently operated in the West Bank and Gaza Strip until the Israeli troop withdrawal from
Gaza. The status of this group is currently unknown. Two units of the Mista'arvim, the Duvdevan
("Cherry") and Shimshon ("Samson "), have operated in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, respectively.
The Sayeret Mat'kal
This unit is the General Staff's highly trained, long-range reconnaissance unit -- often inserted deep behind
enemy lines. Formed in 1957, this super-secret unit has been credited with the assassination of three of
Black September's top lieutenants in the 1970s and participation in the successful Entebbe rescue operation
in 1976 in Uganda. Reports also linked the Sayeret Mat'kal to the assassination of PLO deputy commander
Abu Jihad in 1988 and the 1989 abduction of Sheikh Abdel Karim Obeid, one of Hezbollah's top
commanders.
Ya'ma'm
The Hebrew acronym for Special Police Anti-Terrorist Unit, and Ya'ma's, the Hebrew acronym for Special
Undercover Unit, are both part of the National Police Border Guard. The former is trained in hostagerescue operations, while the latter specializes in undercover operations primarily in the West Bank.
PERSONNEL STRENGTH
The IDF ground forces number 133,000 active-duty personnel, including 107,000 conscripts.
Approximately 500,000 personnel are on rapid mobilization status. Reservists serve 29 days annually.
Equipment
(For additional information on the equipment listed below, search our Weapons Database. Equipment is of
Israeli origin unless otherwise noted.)
FEB07
APR08
OCT09
AUG11
441
455
454
175
1,681
1,525
80
#
441
455
454
175
#
#
#
561
#
#
#
561
#
#
206
561
#
#
206
561
206
126
126
126
261
111
261
111
261
111
261
111
400
400
400
400
8
8
8
8
GROUND COMBAT VEHICLES
Tanks
Merkava I/Merkava II/Merkava III MBT
Merkava Mark 1 MBT
Merkava Mark 2 MBT
Merkava Mark 3 MBT
Merkava Mark 4 MBT
(711 of the following :)
M60 MBT M60A1 Magach 6 Archuv MBT
M60A3 Magach 6 Archuv 2 MBT
A41 Centurion medium (U.K.)
M48A5 Magach 5 Golan (Patton)
medium (U.S.)
T-54/55 Tiran 5 Alon/Brosh medium
(Russia)
Ti-67
Magach 7 (upgraded M60/A1)
Armored Reconnaissance Vehicles
RAMTA RBY Mk 1/BRDM-2
(some w/Sagger TGW) (Russia)
Transportanzer-Fuchs NBC (Germany)
N/A
N/A
34
N/A
N/A
N/A
34
N/A
Armored Personnel Carriers
Puma (Nagmachon)/Bardehlass 2
(U.K. A41 Centurion)
Achzarit (Russian T-54/T-55)
M113A1/A2 Zelda (U.S.)
M2/M3 half-track (U.S. M3)
(incl. reserve) (some in storage)
BTR-50P (Russia) (reserve)
BTR-60 (Russia) (reserve)
BTR-152 (Russia) (Border Guard)
PT-76 light amphibious
N/A
#
6
N/A
15+
N/A
#
6
N/A
45+
Walid Mk 1 (Border Guard)
Nakpadon APC
BTR-40 (Russia)
Wolf multi-purpose armored vehicle
Nemerah heavy APC (turretless Merkava
Artillery
Guns
175-mm M107 self-propelled (U.S.)
130-mm M46 field gun (Russia)
106-mm M40A1 ATK recoilless rifle
400
406
406
406
276
6,131
3,566
276
6,131
3,566
276
6,131
3,566
276
6,131
3,566
#
N/A
#
N/A
34
34
#
N/A
(Russia)(reserve)
#
N/A
#
#
6
6
#
#
#
#
Mark 4)
36
100
N/A
(U.S.)
36
100
N/A
36
100
N/A
36
100
N/A
50
81
50
148
50
36
36
N/A
N/A
50
148
50
36
36
50
81
50
148
50
36
36
50
81
50
148
50
350
350
350
100
350
5
70
5
70
5
70
5
70
18
#
104
652
#
#
1,358
#
2,000
18
N/A
104
652
N/A
N/A
1,358
#
2,000
18
N/A
104
652
N/A
N/A
1,358
#
2,000
18
N/A
104
652
N/A
N/A
1,358
N/A
2,000
20
36
60
50
20
36
60
50
20
36
60
50
20
36
60
50
36
Howitzers
203-mm M110 self-propelled (U.S.)
175-mm M-107
155-mm Soltam M-68/M-71
155-mm M-839P
155-mm M-114A1 (in reserve)
155-mm L33 self-propelled
155-mm M-50 Rotzehach self-propelled
(France Model 50) (in storage)
155-mm M-46
155-mm M109A1/A2 self-propelled
(U.S.)
122-mm D-30 towed (Russia)
105-mm M101 towed (U.S.)
Mortars
160-mm Soltam M66 towed
160-mm Nokhemm (Sherman)
160-mm M43 (in reserve)
120-mm Soltam M65 towed
120-mm M106A2 self-propelled (U.S)
81-mm M125A2 self-propelled (U.S.)
81-mm Soltam towed
60-mm
52-mm Ta'as
Multiple Rocket Launchers
290-mm LAR-290
240-mm BM-24 (Russia)
227-mm MLRS (U.S.)
160-mm LAR-160
58
58
58
58
250
1,000
250
1,000
20
250
1,000
20
250
1,000
20
250
250
250
250
#
#
122-mm BM-21 (Russia)
Missiles
Surface-to-Air
FIM-92A/FIM-92C Stinger
FIM-43 Redeye MANPADS
Machbet
Recoilless Rifle
M-40A1
Rocket Launcher
B-300
7
100
7
100
7
100
7
100
Surface-to-Surface
Lance (in storage)
Jericho 1/2
25
300
900
#
#
25
300
900
#
#
25
300
900
#
#
25
300
900
#
#
Anti-tank
RBY Mk 1 MAPATS
BGM-71 TOW (incl. Ramta SP) (U.S.)
M47 Dragon (U.S.)
AT-3 Sagger (Russian 9K11 Malyutka)
Gill/Spike
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
#
Radars
TPQ-37 Firefinder counter-battery
AN/PPS-15A ground surveillance
EL/M-2140 (veh)
Deployment
Below is a partial snapshot of the ground forces organization:
Northern Command HQ
Central Command HQ
Southern Command HQ
Home Front Command
Artillery Corps
Armored Corps
401 Brigade
7 Brigade
188 Brigade
Infantry
Paratroopers Brigade
890 Efa (Viper) Battalion
101 Patan (Adder) Battalion
202 Tzafa (Basilisk) Battalion
Paratroopers reconnaissance company
Engineering company
Anti-tank company
Zefat
Neva-Yaacout
Neva-Yaacout
Jordan Valley
Golan Heights
Signals and electronics company
Givati Brigade
Shaked Infantry Battalion
Tzabar Infantry Battalion
Orev Anti-Tank Battalion
Special communications unit
Combat engineer battalion
Scout battalion
Golani Brigade
Barak Infantry Battalion
Gideon Infantry Battalion
"First Breaches" Infantry Battalion
Ergoz Special Operations Unit
Orev Anti-Tank Battalion
Reconnaissance unit
Special communications unit
Combat engineer unit
Kfir Brigade
Nachshon Battalion
Tulkarem
Samson Battalion
Bethlehem
Haruv Battalion
Nablus
Duchifat Mechanized Infantry Battalion Ramallah
Lavi Battalion
Hebron
Netzah Yehuda Battalion
Jordan valley
Nachal Brigade
The army began construction on a base at Ir HaBahadim in the Negev in August 2008. It will house the
IDF's Armaments School, Logistics Training School and military police.
Issues
A Merkava Mark 3 overturned during a joint training exercise between armored and infantry units in the
Golan Heights in August 2009, killing the commander and injuring the three troops inside. An infantryman
in the area also died a few days later after being accidentally shot in the back.
The Israeli military plans to train its infantry troops in basic Arabic. The new course will cover Arabic,
Arab culture and basic interrogation methods, and is designed to improve real-time intelligence-gathering
capabilities during combat.
Plans and Programs
In March 2008, the Israel Defense Forces unveiled its newest infantry combat vehicle. The Tiger (Namer in
Hebrew) is built on the chassis of the Merkava 1 tank and is designed to offer more protection against antitank weapons. An undetermined number of the vehicles were expected to be fielded by the end of 2008.
A fifth mechanized infantry brigade (Kfir) has been formed, combining five independent battalions.
Around 400 Merkava Mark 4 main battle tanks are being produced at the rate of 50-70 per year, replacing
older MBTs. Starting in 2010, new Merkava Mark 4s were expected to be equipped with the Trophy antimissile system, designed by Rafael. Trophy was declared fully operational in August 2009 and has been
installed on a number of Mark 4s in the 401st Armored Brigade. The system successfully intercepted an
anti-tank missile that was fired near the Gaza Strip in early 2011.
Israel and Navistar Defense entered into a US$12 million contract for medium tactical vehicles in January
2010. The contract covers 114 vehicles that are based on Navistar's International 7000-series platform,
including cargo, recovery and tow trucks, but not parts and service.
In May 2006, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Ground Forces Command submitted a formal requirement
for two rockets to be developed by the state-owned defense industry. The missiles are said to have a range
of 300 km (186 mi) with the capability to make precision strikes on high-value targets.
The Spike /Gill family of anti-tank missiles is being introduced into the IDF. They are portable fire-andforget weapons that use electro-optical and fiber-optic technologies.
The army has a requirement for 18 ATMOS 2000 self-propelled howitzers. The 155-mm howitzers will
equip three battalions.
The army chose the MARS hand-held thermal imager and target acquisition system for use by its infantry
for close combat in July 2008. The system incorporates a laser rangefinder, digital magnetic compass and
Global Positioning System receiver.
Under a multi-year US$100 million plan, the Israeli military will equip all of its infantry and armor
brigades with ground-based satellite dishes to improve their communication abilities. The very small
aperture terminal (VSAT) two-way broadband satellite communication systems will enable commanders to
communicate with headquarters and receive live video from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Israel Military Industries (IMI) announced in September 2008 the development of a 120-mm satelliteguided mortar round with a range of 6 miles that is able to hit a target within a 10-foot radius. Israeli
armored units deployed near Gaza have fielded the M339 high-explosive multi-purpose round, known as
the Kalanit in Hebrew. It is designed to penetrate bunkers before exploding.
The artillery corps was equipped in December 2008 with a radar system that can pinpoint the launch site of
rocket and mortar attacks, allowing for effective retaliation against Hamas and Hezbollah militants.
The artillery corps is also considering the Accular advanced rocket. It is a 60-mm, GPS -guided surface-tosurface missile that is designed to destroy artillery batteries and infantry command posts.
A new tank shell developed by IMI was tested in July 2009. The 120-mm Calanit (Anemone) shell can be
fired over a hill and explode above enemy anti-tank squads. The fire-and-forget weapon works with an
electronic targeting system to release six explosive charges in mid-air.
The army is assessing the potential use of the Magic Spear rocket system. The 160-mm rocket is an
autonomous surface-to-surface missile with a range of 30 miles (50 km) and GPS guidance enabling it to
hit within 30 feet (10 m) of a target. It is fired from IMI's Lynx launcher, which can fire a variety of rockets
at ranges of up to 90 miles (150 km).
LATEST UPDATE: 1 August 2011
© 2011 Military Periscope. All rights reserved. Redistribution of content is prohibited without prior consent of Military Periscope.
Navy
Armed Forces Structure
OVERVIEW
The Israeli navy operates surface and sub-surface naval vessels in defense of Israel's Mediterranean and
Red Sea maritime boundaries.
Naval aircraft, including patrol, search-and-rescue, surveillance and helicopter gunships, are maintained
and flown by air force personnel.
The Israeli navy is organized into the following units:
3rd Flotilla (missile boats)
Submarine Flotilla
Commando unit
Fast patrol boat squadron
Underwater missions unit
Port security unit
Maritime control unit
The Naval Commando Flotilla consists of a commando unit and a frogman squadron. There are two main
principles guiding naval commando doctrine:
 Every defense system is vulnerable.
 The enemy can deal with weapons and operational methods that are known; for that reason, naval
commandos use imagination, daring and initiative to create situations that cannot be anticipated.
The Naval Commando Flotilla is known to use inflatable Zodiacs and the more heavily armed Swallow
(Snunit) high-speed boats, as well as the Navy's DABUR- and SA'AR-class patrol boats. IAF helicopter
and aircraft assets are routinely used in Naval Commando Flotilla operations.
Top officials in the IDF predict an expanded role for the Israeli submarines in the Mediterranean Sea in the
future. The boats will continue to be used for clandestine surveillance, but will likely expand their deterrent
role. Many analysts believe that Israeli submarines can be equipped with nuclear weapons, thus giving
them a "second-strike" option.
In mid-June 2011, the navy carried out an exercise designed to prepare for an "aid flotilla" to Gaza by
outside activists. In May 2010, nine civilians were killed when navy commandos boarded a Turkish ship
breaking the Israeli blockade.
Relations with Turkey grew worse after the 2008-2009 Gaza war. In mid-2010, for example, Turkey pulled
out of a naval search-and-rescue drill with Israel and the U.S.
PERSONNEL STRENGTH
The Israeli navy numbers about 9,500 active-duty personnel, including 2,500 conscripts. The reserve force
totals approximately 10,000. Some 300 personnel are trained as commandos and frogmen.
FEB07
APR08
OCT09
AUG11
SHIPS
Submarines
3
3
3
3
DOLPHIN class (German Mod
209 design)
(+3 on order)
2
2
2
N/A
GAL class
Corvettes
3
3
3
3
SA'AR V class (Israeli
EILAT class)
Fast attack
2
0
0
0
ALIYA-class missile craft (sold to Mexico)
(w/helicopter) (Sa'ar 4.5 design)
7
8
8
8
HETZ-class missile craft (Sa'ar 4.5 design)
(to be replaced by 2011)
2
1
1
2
RESHEV-class
missile craft
(Sa'ar 4 design)
13
13
13
13
SUPER DVORA Mk I/II-class gun craft
6
6
9
8
SUPER DVORA Mk III-class gun craft
12
12
12
15
DABUR class
3
3
3
T2212-class catamarans
1
1
1
ALLIGATOR-class
semi-submersible
2
5
SHALDAG Mk II class
Amphibious
1
2
1
1
ASHDOD-class tank landing
craft
(ex-U.S. LSM-1)
1
2
1
1
U.S. LCM type
Auxiliaries
#
1
1
1
QESHET training
#
#
N/A
N/A
NIR tender
1
1
N/A
N/A
Katler
3
3
N/A
N/A
Type 1012 Bobcat Catamaran
MISSILES
Anti-Ship
#
#
#
3
Gabriel I (Israel)
#
#
#
#
Gabriel II (Israel)
#
#
#
#
AGM-84/RGM-84
Harpoon (U.S.)
Surface-to-Air
#
#
#
#
Barak I (Israel)
Naval Aviation
The air force arm of the Israel Defense Forces operates a number of fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft in
support of naval operations, including:
FEB07
APR08
OCT09
AUG11
AIRCRAFT
SAR/Maritime Reconnaissance
5
7
7
7
SA565A
Sea Panther SAR/MR (France)
N/A
2
2
2
SA 366G
Dauphin SAR/MR (France)
17
17
17
Bell 212
Transport
2
C-130 Hercules (U.S.)
The Israeli navy in March 2006 got involved for the first time in efforts to counter Kassam rockets
launched by Palestinian militants. Israeli DVORA and SHALDAG -type ships fired dozens of shells at
Kassam launching sites in northern Gaza. The bombardments complemented Israeli army artillery fire also
aimed at deterring militants from firing rockets at Israeli villages.
In mid-March 2011, the Israeli navy seized a ship 200 miles off the coast of Israel which was traveling
from Turkey to Egypt. Commandos reported finding Iranian weapons, likely bound for Gaza.
Plans and Programs
Israel accepted three Super Dvora Mark III patrol boats from manufacturer IAI in September 2006. Four
more were being constructed at the time with a waterjet propulsion system in place of the Arneson Surface
Drive-16 propulsion systems on the first six. Israel also ordered three Kingfisher (Shaldag ) patrol craft.
Deliveries of the new boats have been completed. The vessels are equipped to perform patrol, search-andrescue, coastal defense, counterterrorism, anti-infiltration and anti-smuggling missions.
A missile defense system is being tested on the two classes of patrol boats. The system includes a radar to
detect and track incoming missiles and an electronic warfare system to jam missiles and divert them from
their course. Improvements to anti-ship capabilities among Hamas and Hezbollah militants prompted
development of the defense system.
The navy successfully tested the Barak -1 naval missile shield in late 2008. The system is designed to
protect Israeli naval vessels from air-to-surface and sea-to-sea missiles over a 360-degree radius, as well as
cruise missiles, smart bombs and aerial bombs. Another successful test was carried out in July 2009.
In late 2009, the Israeli navy announced that it would begin to make use of unmanned vessels for
Mediterranean patrol duty. The Protector vessels and another undisclosed system were used in the Gaza
War.
Ship Acquisition and Modernization
Israel and Northrop Grumman have negotiated the purchase of a new class of improved Sa'ar V corvettes.
The ships were expected to replace the HETZ/NIRIT-class ships by 2011. Funding for the new ships will
come from the $2.2 billion annual U.S. military aid package.
Four DEFENDER -class patrol boats were ordered in early 2006 from SAFE Boats International of Port
Orchard, Wash. The vessels will be used for port security and to counter insurgents and weapons
smugglers.
Israel placed an order for four Littoral Combat Ships for US$1.9 billion in July 2008. Israel said it was
interested only in the Lockheed Martin version of the class. In June 2009, Israel abandoned the order,
instead deciding to build at least two littoral ships itself. Rising costs of Lockheed's L CS reportedly
contributed to the decision.
Israel has expressed interest in acquiring two German MEKO A-200 corvettes. The vessels have an
estimated value US$600 million to US$750 million. They would used as part of Israel's missile defense
system and could be armed with U.S. weapons, as well as an Israeli radar and Barak 8 missile defense
system. However, by mid-2011. Israel was again said to be considering LCS vessels over the MEKO ships.
Submarine Acquisition and Modernization
Israel finalized an agreement in 2006 to buy two new DOLPHIN-class submarines from German company
Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft AG under a US$1.27 billion contract. The boats were delivered in late
September 2009, well ahead of a 2010 expected delivery date. Germany picked up a third of the cost. The
subs feature a new German propulsion system, which combines a conventional diesel lead-acid battery
system and an air-independent propulsion system, as well as a fuel cell equipped with oxygen and hydrogen
storage. The submarines are reportedly capable of launching cruise missiles carrying nuclear warheads.
A deal to purchase a sixth DOLPHIN-class boat was finalized in 2011. Israel currently has three DOLPHIN
submarines, two more on order expected to be delivered by 2013.
Israel previously announced plans to decommission the GAL-class boats after the arrival of the DOLPHIN
submarines.
LATEST UPDATE: 1 August 2011
------