Israel Defense Forces

[Judea]

צְבָא הַהֲגָנָה לְיִשְׂרָאֵל
Israel Defense Forces​

Historical Background: The IDF was officially established on May 26, 1948, shortly after the declaration of the State of Israel. Its formation marked a critical moment in Israeli history, as it replaced various pre-state militias and defense forces. David Ben-Gurion, Israel's first Prime Minister, played a key role in unifying these disparate groups into a single military organization.

Leadership:

• Chief of the General Staff: The Chief of the General Staff is the highest-ranking military officer in the IDF and serves as the principal military advisor to the Israeli government. This position is typically held by a lieutenant general or the equivalent. The Chief of the General Staff is responsible for overall strategic planning, military policy, and the operational readiness of the IDF.
• Ministry of Defense: The Minister of Defense is a civilian political leader who oversees the IDF and sets defense policy. The Minister of Defense is usually a member of the Israeli government and works in conjunction with the Chief of the General Staff.
• Joint Staff: The Joint Staff is composed of high-ranking officers who assist the Chief of the General Staff in decision-making and planning. This includes the heads of the three main branches and various other senior officers.

1. Minister of Defense: Minister Emily Goldstein
2. Chief of the General Staff: General Avi Cohen
3. Deputy Chief of the General Staff: Lieutenant General Talia Ben-Ami
4. Head of Ground Forces: General David Erez
5. Head of Air Force: General Shira Levi
6. Head of Navy: Admiral Yonatan Stern
7. Head of Intelligence Directorate: Major General Maya Cohen
8. Head of Operations Directorate: Brigadier General Eitan Weiss
9. Head of Logistics Directorate: Major General Liat Barak
10. Head of Planning Directorate: Brigadier General Elad Ben-Shimon
11. Special Advisor for Cybersecurity: Colonel Amir Gershon

Organization:

• General Staff: The General Staff is responsible for the overall command and control of the IDF. It is composed of several directorates, each of which has specific functions, such as strategic planning, intelligence, logistics, and operations. The General Staff is also in charge of the regional commands.
• Branches:
  • Ground Forces: The ground forces include infantry, armored units, artillery, and specialized combat units. They are responsible for operations on land and the protection of Israel's borders.
  • Air Force: The Air Force is responsible for aerial defense, air-to-air and air-to-ground combat, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. It plays a key role in defending Israeli airspace.
  • Navy: The Navy is responsible for maritime defense, naval warfare, coastal security, and protecting Israel's exclusive economic zone in the Mediterranean Sea.
• Regional Commands: Israel is divided into several regional commands, each responsible for a specific geographic area. These include Northern Command, Central Command, Southern Command, and Home Front Command. Each regional command has its own operational units and is responsible for regional security.
• Reserves: The IDF maintains a large reserve force, consisting of former conscripts and career soldiers who can be called up for active duty during times of crisis or war. Reserve service is a vital component of the IDF's readiness and defense capabilities.
• Intelligence Branch (Aman): The Intelligence Branch of the IDF is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating intelligence related to national security. It is a crucial element in decision-making and operational planning.
• Special Forces: The IDF has several elite special forces units, including Sayeret Matkal, Shayetet 13, Maglan, Duvdevan, and more. These units specialize in covert operations, counterterrorism, and intelligence gathering.

Ranks: The IDF employs a rank structure similar to many other militaries, with ranks ranging from private to general. It includes enlisted personnel, non-commissioned officers, and officers. The highest-ranking officers are typically members of the General Staff.

Mandatory Service: As previously mentioned, Israel has a system of mandatory military service, which significantly contributes to the organizational structure of the IDF.

The IDF is a highly organized and efficient military force with a clear chain of command and well-defined responsibilities for its various branches and units. The leadership and organization of the IDF are designed to address the complex security challenges and geopolitical environment in which Israel operates.

 

[Judea]

זרוע היבשה
Israeli Ground Forces​

The Israeli Ground Forces, a vital component of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), are the backbone of the country's land-based military capabilities. They play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's borders, ensuring territorial integrity, and responding to a wide range of security challenges.

At the helm of the Ground Forces, there is a Major General, a seasoned leader responsible for overseeing the daily operations, training, and readiness of this formidable branch. Working closely with the Chief of the General Staff, the Ground Forces collaborate with other branches of the IDF, such as the Air Force and the Navy, to coordinate joint military operations.

The Ground Forces consist of a diverse array of units, each with its specific mission and expertise. Among them, the infantry units are perhaps the most recognizable. These soldiers form the frontline defense, well-trained in conventional warfare as well as counterterrorism operations. The Golani Brigade, Givati Brigade, and Nahal Brigade are just a few examples of the elite infantry units that make up the force.

Armored units, on the other hand, bring firepower and formidable protection to the battlefield with their advanced Merkava tanks. The 7th Armored Brigade, also known as the "Sa'ar" Brigade, stands as one of the most formidable armored units within the Ground Forces.

To provide critical fire support and long-range capabilities, the Ground Forces have artillery units equipped with howitzers and rocket systems. The 282nd Artillery Battalion is an essential part of the artillery corps, ensuring that the Ground Forces have the firepower they need.

Special Forces units are the elite of the elite, undergoing rigorous training to handle covert operations and counterterrorism. Units such as Sayeret Matkal and Duvdevan are well-known for their exceptional skills and ability to handle the most complex and high-risk missions.

The Engineering Corps, a versatile unit within the Ground Forces, handles tasks related to infrastructure development, combat engineering, and fortifications. Combat engineers are responsible for constructing vital bridges, clearing minefields, and creating obstacles to protect Israeli territory.

The Medical Corps provides critical medical support to soldiers in the field. Their role involves offering emergency medical care and evacuating wounded personnel from the battlefield to medical facilities. This unit plays a crucial part in the wellbeing of IDF personnel.

Extensive training is the hallmark of the Ground Forces. Soldiers undergo comprehensive training, honing their combat skills and specializations to ensure that they are ready to respond to any situation that may arise.

In addition to the soldiers' expertise, the Ground Forces are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced communication systems, surveillance tools, and high-quality combat gear. These modern tools enhance their effectiveness in operations.

In a region characterized by ongoing security challenges, the Ground Forces play a pivotal role in securing Israel's borders and protecting against threats from neighboring countries and non-state actors. The soldiers' dedication and readiness are essential for ensuring the nation's security.

In essence, the Israeli Ground Forces represent a well-trained and highly capable branch of the IDF, instrumental in defending the nation's borders, maintaining security, and responding to multifaceted security challenges. Their commitment and preparedness are essential for upholding the sovereignty and safety of the State of Israel.

Leadership:

1. Commander of the Ground Forces (General): The highest-ranking officer in the Ground Forces, responsible for overall leadership, planning, and coordination of ground operations.
2. Deputy Commander of the Ground Forces (Major General): The second-in-command, assisting the Ground Forces Commander in overseeing the branch's activities.
3. Head of Ground Forces Headquarters (Major General): In charge of managing the administrative and logistical functions of the Ground Forces.
4. Head of Operations Directorate (Major General): Responsible for strategic planning, operations, and coordination of ground forces in various missions.
5. Head of the Armored Corps (Major General): Oversees the armored units, including tanks and armored vehicles, ensuring their readiness and effectiveness.
6. Head of the Infantry Corps (Major General): Leads the infantry units and ensures they are trained and equipped to handle a wide range of ground operations.
7. Head of Artillery Corps (Major General): Manages artillery units, including howitzers and rocket systems, and ensures their readiness for fire support.
8. Head of Combat Intelligence Collection Corps (Major General): Responsible for gathering and analyzing intelligence to support ground operations.
9. Head of the Combat Engineering Corps (Major General: Oversees the combat engineering units, responsible for tasks like fortifications, bridging, and obstacle creation.
10. Head of the Field Intelligence Division (Major General): Manages intelligence operations and provides critical information to ground forces during operations.
11. Head of Medical Corps in the Ground Forces (Major General): Oversees medical support for soldiers in the field, ensuring their health and wellbeing.
12. Commander of Special Forces (Brigadier General): Leads the various special forces units within the Ground Forces, such as Sayeret Matkal, Duvdevan, and others.
13. Commander of Training Bases (Brigadier General): Responsible for training soldiers, including basic combat training and specialized training for different units.
14. Head of Recruitment and Conscription (Lieutenant General): Oversees the recruitment and conscription process to ensure a continuous flow of new soldiers into the Ground Forces.
15. Commander of Regional Divisions (Lieutenant General): Oversees regional divisions responsible for specific geographic areas and operations.
16. Head of the Ground Forces Logistics Directorate (Lieutenant General): Manages the logistical support required for the Ground Forces, ensuring they have the necessary supplies and equipment.

1. Commander of the Ground Forces: General Avi Cohen
2. Deputy Commander of the Ground Forces: Major General Youssef Abu-Mansour
3. Head of Ground Forces Headquarters: Major General Miriam Ben-David
4. Head of Operations Directorate: Major General Moshe Levy
5. Head of the Armored Corps: Major General Eliezer Yilmaz
6. Head of the Infantry Corps: Major General Talia Cohen
7. Head of Artillery Corps: Major General Amir al-Masri
8. Head of Combat Intelligence Collection Corps: Major General Maya Avagyan
9. Head of the Combat Engineering Corps: Major General David Chachanov
10. Head of the Field Intelligence Division: Major General Noa Levy
11. Head of Medical Corps in the Ground Forces: Major General Shira Yacoub
12. Commander of Special Forces: Brigadier General Yoni Cohen
13. Commander of Training Bases: Brigadier General Amir Al-Hashem
14. Head of Recruitment and Conscription: Lieutenant General Aviva Goldstein
15. Commander of Regional Divisions: Lieutenant General Yossi Mizrachi
16. Head of the Ground Forces Logistics Directorate: Lieutenant General Anwar Arslan

Major Bases:
Each of these bases and facilities primary duty is to host IGF forces, additional duties are listed in the descriptions

1. Tzrifin Base: Located near Rishon LeZion, this is one of the largest IDF bases and serves as a major training center and logistics hub.
2. Bahad 1 (Training Base 1): Situated in the Negev Desert, it is the primary training base for infantry units.
3. Bahad 3 (Training Base 3): Located in the north of Israel, it primarily focuses on combat intelligence training.
4. Bahad 4 (Training Base 4): This base specializes in the training of armored and artillery units.
5. Bahad 6 (Training Base 6): Located near Eilat, it focuses on desert warfare and unconventional warfare training.
6. Mitkan Adam: This is a joint training center for various special forces units, including Sayeret Matkal and Shayetet 13.
7. Camp Rabin (Camp Meir Dizengoff): A central military camp in Tel Aviv used for reserve duty training and logistics.
8. Camp Ariel Sharon (Ze'elim): This is a training base for special forces units, including Sayeret Golani and Sayeret Givati.
9. Tze'elim Army Base: Located in southern Israel, it is a significant military training base for ground forces.
10. Camp Tiron: A naval training base for the IDF Navy, which includes the Shayetet 13 naval commando unit.
11. Camp Rishon LeZion: A central base that plays a role in administrative support and logistics for the Ground Forces.
12. Camp Yigal Allon (Nahal Brigade Training Base): Located in the north, it is a training facility for Nahal Brigade units.
13. Camp Amirim (Golani Brigade Training Base): The primary training base for the Golani Brigade.
14. Camp Rotem (Kiryat Shmona): Located in the north, it is a training base for several units, including the Artillery Corps.
15. Kastina Airbase: Used for ground forces operations in the Negev region.
16. Hatsor Airbase: Located in the south, this airbase serves both the Israeli Air Force and the Ground Forces.
17. Mitkan Ramon: A military base near Mitzpe Ramon in the Negev Desert, used for desert warfare training and other purposes.

Northern Command: Responsibilities:

• Defense of Israel's northern borders, including the Lebanese and Syrian borders.
• Monitoring and responding to threats from Hezbollah in Lebanon and other potential threats in the region.
• Conducting military operations and training in a variety of terrains, including mountainous areas.

Primary Base: Tzrifin Base

Commander: Major General Yaron Itzhaki

Number of Personnel:

• 40,000 Infantry
• 3,000 Tank Crew
• 4,500 Artillery Crew
• 4,500 Air Defenders
• 4,000 Officers

Total personnel in the Northern Command: 56,000

Central Command: Responsibilities:

• Oversight of military activities in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria).
• Counterterrorism operations and maintaining security in the West Bank.
• Training for urban warfare and unconventional warfare scenarios.

Primary Base: Camp Ariel Sharon (Ze'elim)

Commander: Major General Aviva Ben-David

Number of Personnel:

• 50,000 Infantry
• 3,500 Tank Crew
• 5,250 Artillery Crew
• 5,250 Air Defenders
• 5,000 Officers

Total personnel in the Central Command: 69,000

Southern Command: Responsibilities:

• Defense of Israel's southern borders, including the Sinai Peninsula border with Egypt and the Gaza Strip.
• Counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations in the Gaza region.
• Training for desert warfare and special forces operations.

Primary Base: Kastina Airbase

Commander: Major General Uri Alon

Number of Personnel:

• 30,000 Infantry
• 2,500 Tank Crew
• 3,750 Artillery Crew
• 3,750 Air Defenders
• 3,000 Officers

Total personnel in the Southern Command: 43,000

Home Front Command:
Responsibilities:

• Civil defense, including preparing for and responding to various emergencies and natural disasters.
• Ensuring the protection and safety of civilians during times of crisis.
• Coordination with civilian authorities and infrastructure protection.

Primary Base: Camp Rabin (Camp Meir Dizengoff)

Commander: Major General Rachel Cohen

Number of Personnel:

• 20,000 Infantry
• 1,000 Tank Crew
• 1,500 Artillery Crew
• 1,500 Air Defenders
• 3,000 Officers

Total personnel in the Home Front Command: 27,000

Brigades:
Work in Progress

Personnel:

​	Type​	Active​	Training​	Goal​
	Officer​	20,000​	0​	50,000​
	Pilot (Officer)​	1,000​	0​	5,000​
	Infantry​	150,000​	0​	250,000​
	Tank Crew​	10,000​	0​	20,000​
	Artillery Crew​	15,000​	0​	30,000​
	Air Defender​	15,000​	0​	40,000​
	Medic (All IDF Branches)​	0​	20,000​	20,000​

Vehicles:

​	Name​	Type​	Owned​	Pending​	Planned​
	Merkava Mark IV​	Main Battle Tank​	100​	0​	500​
	Leclerc Tropicalized​	Main Battle Tank​	50​	0​	100​
	CAESAR​	Self-Propelled Artillery​	100​	0​	500​
	VAB Azure​	Armored Personnel Carrier​	100​	900​	2000​
	VB2L​	Command Car​	100​	0​	100​
	Arrow​	ABM System​	3​	0​	3​
	EL/M-2080 Green Pine Block-B​	RADAR​	3​	0​	3​
	Iron Dome​	Air Defense System​	15​	0​	15​
	Eurocopter Tiger HAP​	Attack Helicopter​	10​	0​	200​

Israel Air Defense Command
Israel Air Defense Command (IADC) is the ad-hoc command structure responsible for the deployment and use of Iron Dome, Arrow, and other air defense systems as well as coordination with the Israeli Air Force. Closely tied to the Artillery Corps, the Air Defenders operating under its umbrella guard Israeli air space 24/7.

Arrow 2 Deployments:
Battery 1: Palmachim Airbase
Battery 2: Ein Shemer Airfield
Battery 3: Tal Shahar

Due to the large range of Arrow 2, with the deployment of these three batteries the entirety of Israel is covered, with 90% of the population being covered by two batteries and 50% by all three batteries.

Iron Dome Deployments:
With fifteen batteries available to the IDF they have been deployed strategically at locations they are likely most needed. As such seven of the batteries are deployed in Southern Israel, as well as near Gaza and the West Bank. The remaining five batteries are deployed at bases near or in major cities and the remaining two batteries are positioned near the Syrian and Lebanese borders.

 

[Judea]

זְרוֹעַ הָאֲוִיר וְהֶחָלָל
Israeli Air Force​

Description: The Israeli Air Force is one of the most advanced and capable air forces in the world. It is tasked with securing Israel's airspace, conducting strategic and tactical operations, and supporting the overall defense strategy of the country. The IAF is known for its agility, precision, and cutting-edge technology, making it a significant deterrent and a formidable force in the region.

Leadership and Organization: The IAF's leadership is structured around a hierarchy of commanders and staff officers. As of my last available information in September 2021, the leadership positions included:

• Commander of the Israeli Air Force (Major General): The highest-ranking officer in the IAF, responsible for overall command and strategic decisions.
• Deputy Commander of the Israeli Air Force (Major General): Assists the Commander in leading the IAF.
• Head of Air Staff (Major General): Responsible for operational planning and readiness.
• Head of the Air Force Intelligence Directorate (Major General): In charge of intelligence and reconnaissance operations.
• Head of the Air Force Operations Directorate (Major General): Manages air operations, mission planning, and combat readiness.
• Head of the Air Force Personnel Directorate (Major General): Oversees personnel, training, and human resources.
• Head of the Air Force Technical Division (Major General): Manages aircraft maintenance, technology, and logistics.
• Head of the Air Force Air Defense Division (Major General): Responsible for air defense systems and missile defense.

Bases:

1. Hatzor Airbase: Located near Kfar Saba in central Israel, Hatzor Airbase is known for its role in air defense operations and as a central hub for the IAF.
2. Nevatim Airbase: Located in the Negev Desert, Nevatim is a significant airbase and serves as the primary base for Israel's southern air operations.
3. Palmachim Airbase: Situated near Rishon LeZion on the Mediterranean coast, Palmachim Airbase is known for its involvement in space launch activities and space surveillance operations.
4. Tel Nof Airbase: Located in central Israel, Tel Nof is one of the IAF's largest and most important bases. It is involved in aerial refueling, strategic operations, and hosts various squadrons and aircraft.
5. Hatzerim Airbase: Located near Be'er Sheva in southern Israel, Hatzerim Airbase is home to the IAF Flight Academy, where pilots and navigators receive their training. It is also known for hosting air shows.
6. Ramon Airbase: Situated in the Negev Desert, Ramon Airbase is a key facility used for operational readiness and is also known for its strategic importance.
7. Ramat David Airbase: Located in the Jezreel Valley in northern Israel, Ramat David Airbase serves as a base for various IAF squadrons and is involved in air defense and combat operations.
8. Ovda Airbase: Located in southern Israel, Ovda Airbase is used for both military and civilian purposes. It serves as a hub for training and operational activities.
9. Haifa Airbase: Located in northern Israel. Haifa Airbase is used for both military and civilian purposes.
10. [TOP SECRET]Sdot Micha Airbase: Located in central Israel. Sdot Micha Airbase is used for missile launches.

Organization:
Tel Nof Airbase:
101 Squadron "First Fighter": 10 Dassault Mirage 2000D
106 Squadron "Spearhead": 5 Dassault Rafale C

Hatzerim Airbase:
102 Squadron "Flying Tiger": 10 Dassault Mirage 2000-5F

Personnel:

​	Type​	Active​	Training​	Goal​
	Officer (Pilot)​	1,000​	0​	2,000​
	Officer (Other)​	2,000​	0​	5,000​
	Warrant Officers & NCOs​	50,000​	0​	50,000​

Equipment:

​	Name​	Type​	Owned​	Pending​	Planned​
	Dassault Rafale C​	Air Superiority/Multirole Fighter​	5​	0​	150​
	Dassault Mirage 2000 5F​	Multirole Fighter​	10​	0​	200​
	Dassault Mirage 2000D​	Ground Attack/Tactical Bomber/Trainer​	10​	0​	100​

 

[Judea]

זְחיל הים הישראלי
Israeli Navy​

Description: The Israeli Navy is the maritime branch of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and plays a vital role in securing Israel's coastlines, protecting its maritime interests, and contributing to national defense and security. The navy is responsible for various missions, including naval defense, maritime security, and supporting broader IDF operations.

Organization: The Israeli Navy is organized into several key units and commands, each with specific roles and responsibilities:

1. Naval Headquarters: This is the highest command level in the Israeli Navy and is responsible for strategic planning, command and control, and overall coordination of naval operations.
2. Fleet Command: The Fleet Command oversees all operational units of the navy, including submarines, surface vessels, and coastal security. It is responsible for operational readiness, training, and mission execution.
3. Submarine Flotilla: The Israeli Navy operates a fleet of submarines that serve as a strategic deterrent and intelligence-gathering assets. The submarine flotilla is equipped with advanced Dolphin-class submarines.
4. Surface Fleet: This unit includes a variety of surface vessels, including missile boats, corvettes, and patrol boats. These ships are tasked with patrolling Israel's territorial waters, protecting maritime assets, and intercepting potential threats.
5. Marine Corps: The Israeli Marine Corps is responsible for amphibious operations, coastal security, and specialized missions. It includes combat divers and naval infantry units.
6. Naval Air Arm: The naval air arm operates various aircraft for maritime patrol, reconnaissance, search and rescue, and anti-submarine warfare. It enhances the navy's situational awareness and surveillance capabilities.
7. Coastal Security Units: These units are responsible for safeguarding Israel's coastline and maritime borders, including ports and offshore facilities. They play a crucial role in detecting and preventing threats.

Notable Assets: The Israeli Navy operates a range of naval assets, including missile boats, corvettes, submarines, unmanned naval systems, and patrol vessels. Some of the notable assets include the Sa'ar 6-class corvettes, Sa'ar 5-class missile boats, and the advanced Dolphin-class submarines.

Responsibilities: The Israeli Navy's core responsibilities include:

• Protecting Israel's coastline and territorial waters.
• Maintaining maritime security and preventing illegal activities at sea.
• Ensuring freedom of navigation and the safety of shipping routes.
• Contributing to the country's overall defense posture and deterrence.

The Israeli Navy's strategic location along the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea plays a significant role in Israel's national defense and security strategy. It is well-equipped, highly trained, and prepared to operate in diverse maritime environments to protect Israel's interests and safeguard its maritime borders.

Bases:

1. Haifa Naval Base: Located in Haifa, it is one of the largest and most important naval bases in Israel. It serves as the primary base for the Israeli Navy's surface vessels, including missile boats and corvettes. Haifa Naval Base is strategically positioned on the Mediterranean coast and is crucial for naval operations in the northern part of Israel.
2. Ashdod Naval Base: Located in Ashdod, this base plays a key role in maintaining maritime security in the southern part of Israel along the Mediterranean coastline. It supports various naval operations and provides a secure hub for naval assets.
3. Eilat Naval Base: Situated in the southernmost city of Eilat, this base is strategically located at the northern tip of the Red Sea. Eilat Naval Base is responsible for safeguarding Israel's interests in the Red Sea and monitoring maritime traffic through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.
4. Atlit Naval Base: Located near the town of Atlit, south of Haifa, Atlit Naval Base is used for training and supports the naval air arm and coastal security units.
5. Herzliya Naval Base: Located in Herzliya, this base is used for various naval operations and patrols in the region.
6. Haifa Port: While Haifa Port is primarily a civilian port, it also serves the Israeli Navy for specific naval operations and maintenance.
7. Ashdod Port: Similar to Haifa Port, Ashdod Port is a dual-use facility that can support naval activities when necessary.
8. Kishon Port: Located near Haifa, the Kishon Port serves as an auxiliary naval base, especially for coastal security and maintenance of naval assets.

Fleet:

​

	Class	Name	Under Construction	Planned
	La Fayette Class Frigate	INS David Ben-Gurion	0	20
	Cassard Class Frigate	INS Keshet (Bow) INS Hetz (Arrow)	0	2
	Floreal Class Frigate	INS Lahav (Blade) INS Hanit (Spear) INS Romach (Lance) INS Kidon (Javelin)(Planned) INS Herev (Sword)(Planned)	0	5

Organization:

​	Home Port​	Fleet​	Ships​	Area of Responsibility​
	Haifa Naval Base​	Mediterranean Fleet​	INS David Ben-Gurion INS Keshet INS Hetz INS Lahav​	Eastern Mediterranean​
	Eilat Naval Base​	Red Sea Fleet​	INS Hanit INS Romach​	Red Sea​