Soldiers would be able to construct the bunkers quickly and easily, providing them with cover from enemy fire
Date: 31/07/2012, 10:01 AM
Author: Iddan Sonsino
The Engineering Corps is currently exploring the possibility of purchasing mobile bunkers. Soldiers would be able to construct the bunkers quickly and easily without outside assistance, even while deep in enemy territory, providing them with cover from enemy fire.
“A force maneuvering on the battlefield that reaches its target and intends to stop for a particular period of time, needs protection from the weapons fire that it is expected to take while deep in enemy territory,” Maj. Andras Schenker, head of the Fortifications Section of the Engineering Corps, explained to the IDF Website. “The new solution that we are examining will significantly advance the soldiers' protection.”
The bunker, known as the Fortress of Judah, is produced by the Yehuda Mesh Welding Fencing company. It is built of baskets, which can be transported by ground vehicles or dropped from aircraft, using advanced, GPS-based equipment to ensure an accurate drop. Once in location, soldiers would fill the baskets with sand, either independently or using bulldozers.
“An infantry platoon will be able to build the new bunker in an extremely short time, without relying on any tools. Each part can be lifted by two people. That's a tremendous advantage – within a short time and without outside help, the soldiers will be totally protected from the relevant threat,” Maj. Schenker explained.
The IDF's operational test of the bunker took place last week. “The test was successful,” Maj. Schenker said. “In all of the actions, the bunker maintained stability and resistance to fragmentation.”