August 2011

Pictures of the Month Operations Room

n unprecedented coordinated terrorist attack took place A during mid August on Israels frontier with Egypt, leaving 8 Israelis killed and over 20 injured. Among the dead, Golani combatant Staff Sergeant Moshe Naftali and Special Police Forces combatant Moshe Pascal. The IDFs response was harsh, widespread yet surgical including the downing of a senior person in the World Islamic Jihad Movement, the destruction of infrastructures as well as the destruction of Terror Tunnels.READ MORE n extensive arsenal discovered on the bodies of the terrorists A included large quantities of ammunition, weapons and magazines including plastic cuffs indicating the intention to kidnap hostages. READ MORE Over 150 projectiles were launched towerds Israel during August, including a mix of Grad Rockets, Kassam missles and Mortar Shells. Dozens of these were successfully intercepted by forces manning the Iron Dome batteries deployed around Beer Sheba and Ashkelon. READ MORE General preparedness for September: Riot control from North to South - Both Northern and Southern Commands have established sections to handle violent unrest as a conclusion the drawn from Nakba and Naksa events. Special Forces have been training and drilling since the beginning of this summer. READ MORE

One on One

300 teens from all around the world came to Israel to join the IDF and make their dream a reality - An interview with a new immigrant from Hong - Gong, preparing herself for Call Up to military service within the Garin Tzabar project. READ MORE fter years of successes the artillery reveals the secret A Tamuz missile - Some of the secrecy around the Kela David(Davids Slingshot) unit of the artillery is removed. Introducing the Tamuz- precise, autonomous and particularly deadly. READ MORE

Challenges of the Moment

On the Agenda

A first insight into the Rimon Patrol The Southern Front Commando force - As a conclusion of Cast Lead, the Givati Brigade was assigned to resuscitate the Rimon Patrol trained to combat terror in the vast terrain of Southern Command. READ MORE Attacks Renewed in Israel's South - The round of escalation between Israel and the terrorist organizations operating in the Gaza Strip which began with the terrorist attack north of Eilat on August 18 was rekindled after a temporary lull in the fighting on August 23. READ MORE

IDF Events

he Month of Ramadan : 110,000 Palestinian entries to Israel T on an average weekend. READ MORE ne year since the tragic crash The IAF once more trains in O Rumania - For the first time since the Sikorsky crash during last summer, the IAF has returned for drills over Rumania. Karnaf (C130) squadrons have flown there for particular, challenging and perhaps even moving drills.READ MORE he cooperation continues: US Marines training with the IDF T in the war against terror - US Marine troops have been doing joint drills with the IDF, training in Built Up Warfare, using the most advanced simulators at their disposal. READ MORE he Chinese Chief of Staff on a State Visit to the IDF. READ T MORE our new Major Generals appointed by the Chief of Staff READ F MORE IDF Spokesperson's Unit Public Affairs Branch

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August 2011

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In response to terror attacks in south, IDF targets sites in Gaza

In response the terrorist attacks that took place in southern Israel on Thursday (August 18) and later rocket fire at Israel, IAF aircraft targeted seven sites in the Gaza Strip. In northern Gaza, two terror activity sites and a weapons storage facility were struck. In southern Gaza, two smuggling tunnels, a terrorist tunnel and a terror activity site were struck. IDF Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yoav (Poly) Mordechai said on Friday that IDF forces are continuing to search the area of Thursday's terrorist attacks for weaponry left behind by terrorists. "The IDF will continue to prevent terrorism and will respond decisively and with force in the Gaza Strip," Brig. Gen. Mordechai said. "At the same time, we are setting up investigations to learn the lessons of Thursday's events." More than 12 rockets were fired at Israel from Gaza overnight. Some were intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-rocket system and some fell in open areas. Brig. Gen. Mordechai noted, however, that it is too early to say that the situation in the region will escalate. "Throughout today (Friday), we will see how things develop," Brig. Gen. Mordechai said. Brig. Gen. Mordechai called on residents of southern Israel to follow the instructions given by the Homefront Command. The IDF will not tolerate attacks on Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers. The IDF will act decisively against any element that uses terrorism against Israel. The IDF holds the Hamas terrorist organization for all terrorist activity emanating from the Gaza Strip.

August 2011

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Explosive belts, Kalashnikov rifles found on bodies of dead terrorists

On Tuesday (August 23), the IDF displayed the weaponry found on the bodies of the terrorists who conducted the attacks near Eilat this month in which eight Israelis were killed. The weaponry included explosive vests and other explosive devices, a commando knife, self-made fragmentation grenades, Kalashnikov rifles, catridges and handcuffs (indicating that the terrorists intended to try to abduct an IDF soldier during the attacks). "This large quantity of weaponry on the bodies of the terrorists makes clear one thing: their goal was to kill or kidnap Israeli citizens," said Lt. Col. Avital Leibovich, head of the IDF's foreign press branch. In reference to the many Kalashnikov bullets found on the terrorists, Lt. Col. Leibovich said that this was "a reminder of the Victoria ship, which several months ago attempted to smuggle 76,000 bullets such as these through the tunnels to Gaza." Picture Gallery

August 2011

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Despite return of calm to south, Iron Dome batteries maintain alertness

Five rockets landed in the Ashkelon region on Monday night (August 22), despite the ceasefire declared by Palestinian terrorist groups in the Gaza Strip. But overall, a relative calm has settled over southern Israel, following a weekend of rocket attacks. Despite the calm, the Iron Dome batteries in the Be'er Sheva and Ashkelon regions are not taking any chances and are maintaining alertness. "Our motivation is sky high," said the deputy commander of the Be'er Sheva battery. "If there is another event, we will do all we can to fulfill our mission as best as possible, either now or in the next round." While dozens of rockets were fired daily at Israel over the weekend, the targets on the Iron Dome screens have now dwindled. "I certainly feel more relaxed, but we must maintain constant readiness," the deputy battery commander said. "We continue to fully staff [the Iron Dome system] and we are preparing for the arrival of a third battery. Our alertness is like it was during the busy weekend and we will be ready if the situation escalates again."

August 2011

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IDF increases riot-control training

The IDF's Northern and Southern Commands recently established departments to train forces on how to contain mass riots. The departments were developed to be similar to the Central Command's existing riot department. Forces began training under the new departments this summer. The training covers various topics, including: riot dispersal means, use of nonlethal weapons and behavior in front of both the media and the Palestinian population. The creation of these training departments stemmed from the lessons learned from the "Nakba" and "Naksa" day events earlier this year with the goal of improving the IDF's effectiveness in managing riots.

August 2011

Hong Kong teen joins the IDF

Approximately 300 teens from all around the world arrived in Israel this month for the sole purpose of enlisting to the IDF. In preparation for their enlistment, the teens joined the Garin Tzabar program. In cooperation with the Israeli Scouts (Tzofim) and the Education and Youth Corps, Garin Tzabar accepts teens interested in immigrating to Israel and serving in the IDF from all around the world. With the Garin, they learn about the army and Israel, tour the country, and are prepared for their military service. The program gives them a home and supports the teens throughout their service.

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Hadar Shabat (18) arrived in Israel two months ago from Hong- Kong and is anxious to embark on her new life. "I'm extremely excited to finally become a soldier," she told IDF Website. "I always knew I would immigrate to Israel." Soon, she will be moving to her Kibbuz in northern Israel with her fellow Garin Tzabar members. "Life in Hong-Kong is very different than in Israel," explained Shabat. "It's a very business-oriented, fast-paced city, with lots of opportunities." Hadar explained that the Israeli and Jewish community in Hong-Kong is on the rise. "When I was born here it wasn't like this. There weren't many Jews, and even fewer Israelis, which is why I studied at an international high school. Today, it's wonderful to see that my younger siblings go to Jewish schools and are surrounded by kids just like them." There are many cultural differences between Israel and Hong-Kong, and Hadar was the only Israeli of the 1,000 students at high school. "There were several other Jewish students," she said, "but we were definitely a minority." Studying at an international school with students from all around the world was an incredible experience for Hadar and one of the reasons she did not move to Israel at a younger age. "There's something very special about going to a school like mine, you meet people from all around the world, with different cultures and opinions." She spoke fluent Hebrew at home and used English at her international high school. "I don't actually know Chinese," she confessed. "English is almost the first language in Hong-Kong, everybody speaks it and you don't even need to know Chinese to get by." Throughout the years, Hadar's love for Israel remained strong, and when an Israeli Tzofim branch opened in Hong-Kong the decision was obvious. "I felt that this was my opportunity to make a dream come true- move to Israel and join the IDF. My parents supported me completely and with time my dream became a reality." Although she moved to Israel on her own, Shabat will not be enlisting alone. "It's scary to live without your family," she said, "but there are five friends from Hong-Kong in my Garin that I've known for years. That's a great relief." Hadar believes that joining the IDF should be a privilege, not a requirement. "It's an incredible experience and opportunity to grow and learn so many new things. More than anything, it's an opportunity to give back to the country," she said.

August 2011

Introducing the secret 'Tamuz' missile

The Artillery Brigade reveals the most precise electro optic missile, 'Tamuz' and the APC 'Hafiz' which carries its launch tower and deadly missiles. The Tamuz missile, developed by the Armament Development Authority, was declared operational in the 1980's though remained a mystery till this Monday (Aug. 1). The missile has a powerful, hollow explosive capable of hitting highly concealed targets and is directed by its operator till the very instant it hits. Thus acquiring the ability to select a target, home in on it and achieve an exact hit almost every single time, during both day and night time.

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With a range of 20km and speed of 220 meter per second, along with the absolute silence as it travels through the air, the missile creates a powerful surprise factor. It can home in on moving objects and is used against anti-tank targets as well as against terrorist groups and buildings used for terrorist activities. The Tamuz missile was first used in the Second Lebanon War. The uniqueness of the Tamuz missile is its ability to independently track a target both stationary and in motion. A special camera is installed on the Tamuz tracking the target along with the missile. Most use of the missile is done via simulations due to its high cost. The operators go through intensive training mostly using simulators. "It's essential to learn how to properly direct the launcher to the target," explains Col. Sharon, Kelah David Division Support Unit Commander, "the missile has a unique flight pattern, and once fired it cannot be undone." "It's crucial to teach the operators how to choose the appropriate targets and not any random target on the field," adds Col. Sharon, "if an actual tank in motion is recognized, we can home in on it and hit. Almost every single missile fired hits its target. Once fired, the missile spends 30 - 40 seconds in the air." "This is the most accurate ground system," adds Artillery Corps Commander Brig. Gen. David Swisa, "it's exact and can even hit inside the window of a house. He can hit the desired target even based on an inaccurate waypoint, and is extremely useful against launchers. This could be critical on the battlefield." Watch the video Picture Gallery

August 2011

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A glimpse at the new commando unit that defends southern Israel

Around a year ago, the IDF's Southern Command created a new commando reconnaissance unit, called Rimon. The vast southern region of Israel is prone to terror activities, necessitating a commando force trained to engage in combat against terrorist cells operating in the area. Last Thursday (August 18), terrorist attacks in the Eilat region took the lives of eight Israelis. Still in its preliminary stages, the unit is being trained to face any challenge posed by enemies in the south, in both urban Gaza settings and in the open desert. The unit's primary mission is to thwart all terrorist activities in the region. "The soldiers in the unit are extremely diverse: Ethiopians, Russians, Druze, Orthodox Jews, lone soldiers, etc." Lt. Y told IDF Website. "This diversity keeps them united." "It's been years since the Rimon unit last existed in the IDF," said Lt. Y. "It offers many unique things, and there is truly a special feeling." Lt. Y said that the new unit is in the process of forming its identity. "Anything you do both good or bad, defines the unit," he said. "Every tradition we start will last for generations." Picture Gallery Watch the video

August 2011

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T he Meir Amit Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center

Attacks Renewed in Israel's South

The Situation on the Ground The round of escalation between Israel and the terrorist organizations operating in the Gaza Strip which began

with the terrorist attack north of Eilat on August 18 was 23. Israeli aircraft attacked and killed a Palestinian activity in the Sinai Peninsula. In retaliation, the terrorist

rekindled after a temporary lull in the fighting on August Islamic Jihad terrorist operative who promoted terrorist organizations, led by the PIJ, attacked population centers in Israel's south with rockets and mortar shells. (From the morning of August 24 approximately 20 rockets and the Gaza Strip.

a number of mortar shells fell in Israeli territory.) The IDF responded by attacking terrorist targets in Rocket Attack Targets Israel Following the killing of Ismail al-Asmar, the terrorist organizations fired approximately 20 rockets at populated areas in Israel, about half of them long-range rockets which reached cities and villages 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. Some fell in and around Ashqelon. Most of them fell on the night of August 24. Two mortar shell hits were identified on the morning of August 24.

A number of terrorist organizations operating in the Gaza Strip claimed responsibility for the rocket responsible for Grad rocket fire targeting Beersheba, Ashqelon, Ofakim and other western Negev fired from the Gaza Strip fell in Nafura Square in Egyptian Rafah, wounding a woman. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad Claims Responsibility

fire, especially the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. According to the organization's website, the PIJ was population centers on the night of August 24. According to the Egyptian media, one of the rockets

Claiming responsibility for the Grad rocket fired on at 23:15 hours on August 24 (Jerusalem Brigades website, August 25.08.11).

Claiming responsibility for the Grad rockets fired at Beer Sheba, Ofakim, Ashqelon and the population centers near the Gaza Strip on the night of August 24 (Jerusalem Brigades website, August 25.08.11).

August 2011

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Jerusalem crossings open for Ramadan

Approximately 110,000 Palestinians entered Jerusalem on Friday (August 12) via the Qalandiya, Rachel, and Hazeitim crossings for the Ramadan tradition of praying at the Temple Mount. Every year, the crossings into Jerusalem open during the month of Ramadan to accommodate this weekly tradition. The IDF Military Police's 'Erez' Battalion is in charge of security, enabling thousands of Palestinians to enter every Friday morning, starting as early as 4 am. "This month is a climax for our soldiers," explained Maj. Gili Becker Company Commander at the Erez Battalion, stationed at the Qalandiya crossing. "We start preparing at 2 am, and by 4 we're ready for the first big wave of worshipers. Every Friday is exhausting and complicated: we must make sure the passage is quick and efficient without jeopardizing security, while still maintaining mutual respect," said Maj. Becker. She added that "last Friday, 25,000 Palestinians passed through just my crossing, and the numbers continue to grow every week." Lt. Col. Yuval Shenkin, the Erez Battalion Commander, clarified that the weekly passage of such large numbers is made possible only with the battalion's excellent preparation. "This is an extremely complex process that requires special preparation," he explained. "Our soldiers start operating very early in the morning, doing an outstanding job both in terms of security and on a personal level." He also explained that in consideration of the fasting Palestinians, the IDF soldiers do not eat or drink in front of them and are extremely careful in maintaining modesty and understanding. "This situation isn't easy for either side, though we accommodate it as much as possible. We've set up shade nets against the extreme heat," he added. "The population is also relatively old, and we respect their difficulties." During the second week of Ramadan last year, 73,000 people crossed into Jerusalem, in comparison with this year's 110,000. According to Lt. Col. Shenkin the reason for this increase is the more efficient methods and the preparation of the Erez Battalion. "The goal is to achieve a high level and quick security check. There is no doubt that this depends on the determination of the soldiers and the seriousness with which they take their job," Lt. Col. Shenkin concluded. The majority of the population entering includes women over the age of 45 and men over 50. Younger worshipers receive a special permit. Lt. Col. Shenkin explained that "every week more people receive the appropriate permits thus further increasing the numbers."

August 2011

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IAF returns to Romania for joint training exercise

For the first time since an Sikorsky CH-53 crashed in a training mission last year, returned to Romania for joint Israel Air Force Romania during the IAF recently exercises.

Six IAF airmen and a Romanian soldier were killed in the July 2010 accident. "In the past year, the friendship between us has become a brotherhood," said Romanian General Alexander Glushka, the head of the Romanian Air Force's training squadron. "This cooperation is very important to us." Earlier this month, IAF C-130 Hercules "Karnaf" aircraft departed Israel for two weeks of intensive training in the skies over Romania and the Carpathian Mountains. The IAF Karnaf crews had to cope with Romania's complex topography and volatile weather. They practiced navigating through mountainous terrain and ravines. "The Karnaf is unusual in this regard," said an IAF airman that participated in the exercise. "When you talk about a transport plane, everyone thinks of an El Al Boeing that transports passengers. Those flights are very comfortable and at high altitude, with newspapers and coffee. But the Karnaf was built from the start to be a tactical transport aircraft - a plane that navigates and flies through unfriendly territory carrying fighters." Watch the video

August 2011

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U.S. Marines train at IDF Urban Warfare Training Center

The narrow streets and tall cement buildings of theworld-renowned IDF Urban Warfare Training Center echoed with shouts in flawless English asUS Marines delve into another closequarters-battle drill. As part of the ongoing cooperation between the Israeli Defense Forces and the US Armed Forces stationed in Europe, a company of US Marines came to Israel for a month of intensive training at IDF facilities and alongside IDF soldiers. Dividing their time between the Adam Base in central Israel and the Tze'elim Base in the south, the soldiers trained in urban and cautious warfare, reconnaissance, and at various shooting ranges. As they embark on a training exercise at the UWTC, Platoon Sgt. Robert Hattenbach explains, "We've never been to a mock town like that of the IDF." He mentions the facility's size and unique structure and continues "it's important for our soldiers to train in different sites, preparing them for anything."The soldiers were thrilled to train at the city as well, raving about its realistic feel. A smoke grenade hits the floor, rapidly secreting thick smoke of a vibrant color used for camouflage against the lurking enemy. Yelling out commands, M4s ready, they sneak from building to building, clearing out every room and securing their objective. The success of the operation is determined by the Captain, and the "enemy" is a squad of the Marines platoon, hiding inside each multiple story building waiting for the other squads to find them. "By training here," Hospital Corpsman HM1 Raymond Price elaborates, "we can better combat terrorism at any area and field." He continues, "coming to Israel has been an inspirational trip, it's beautiful to see how Israel has managed to preserve so many years of history, culture and tradition." "This trip was a serious wake up call," says Sgt. Hattenbach. "The instructors at the Adam Base took the time to explain to us what's been going on in Israel and we realized that Israeli people are just like us. We now better understand what Israel really is and when we go back to the US we can tell people that." During earlier exercises that involved IDF forces, the US Marines were impressed by their work "the tactics used by the snipers and Special Forces are much more efficient," explains Cpl. Lombard, "they also focus more on the safety of each individual soldier rather than the mission." The company is one of the only young Marines units; all at around 19 years old, they are close in age to the Israeli soldiers and were able to from close bonds. Howeverunlike IDF soldiers, the Marines volunteer to draft. "We have a responsibility for our country," they agree, "you can't just sit at home hearing of everything going on in the world and remain idle." This particular company, the Marine Corps Fast Team Security Forces, enlisted for five years, three of which they spend deployed to Europe or Africa and after further infantry training are sent to the battle fronts at either Iraq or Afghanistan. Concluding their training in Israel, the company went for a well-deserved rest at the Dead Sea. Picture Gallery

August 2011

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Chinese chief of staff arrives in Israel to visit IDF

The Chinese Chief of the General Staff General Chen Bingde arrived in Israel on Sunday (August 14). Gen. Bingde is the guest of the IDF Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Benny Gantz, who will host a festive dinner in honor of Gen. Bingde on Sunday evening. The dinner will be attended by senior IDF officers. During his visit, Gen. Bingde will meet senior defense officials, attend strategic and security briefings, visit the IDF Urban Warfare Training Center, and observe IDF ground forces training. Gen. Bingde will also tour the Western Wall and the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and Museum in Jerusalem. The IDF places significant emphasis on the development and upkeep of international cooperation as a means of facing mutual challenges. This visit is part of a series of cooperative exchanges between the IDF and foreign partners. Previous visitors have included the heads of the Italian, German, U.S. and Bulgarian militaries, among others. Watch the video

August 2011

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New appointments to General Staff Forum approved

On Thursday (August 4), Defense Minister Ehud Barak approved four new appointments to the General Staff Forum. The new General Staff members were nominated by Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz. The next commander of the Israel Navy will be Brig. Gen. Ram Rothberg (in the picture). Rothberg will replace Maj. Gen. Eliezer Marom, who is retiring after serving in the IDF for 37 years. The other approved appointments were: Brig. Gen. Kobi Barak as head of the Technology and Logistics Branch; Brig. Gen. Yossi Baidatz as head of the military colleges; and Brig. Gen. Uzi Moscovich as head of the Teleprocessing Branch. All of the new appointments will be promoted in rank to Major General.