IDF forms first ‘multi-dimensional' unit

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on 1 January that they had formed a new “multi-dimensional unit” that organically combines elite infantry, armoured, C4i, intelligence, and air force elements.

The unit is one of the first tangible products of the new Tnufa (Momentum) multi-year military programme launched by IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Aviv Kochavi to restructure the military in the face of emerging threats and rapidly changing battlefield conditions over the coming decade.

The IDF said the unit is designed to boost tactical capabilities that currently exist at the division level and will initially rely on the combat knowledge from other elite units in the IDF. Its headquarters was established several months ago and it was allocated its first combat troops in recent days. It will ultimately be allocated personnel from the Engineering Corps’ elite Yahalom unit, Armored Corps and Golani Infantry Division reconnaissance units, 35th Paratroopers Brigade, and the C4i Corps, as well as Israeli Air Force pilots.

The IDF did not say how many personnel it will eventually have, but said the unit will be commanded by a lieutenant colonel: the rank that usually commands a battalion. It will report directly to the commander of the 98th ‘Fire’ Division: a paratrooper reserve formation that is subordinate to Central Command and known for being versatile and having a multi-branch focus.

Personnel requirements will include a high degree of combat fitness and training will focus on an ability to rapidly identify and attack enemy targets. The unit is expected to reach a high level of operational readiness in 2020.

Military sources told Jane’s