What’s New? Top 6 Exciting Changes of the Year

The last 12 months were full of changes and innovations in the IDF. Check out our top 6.

IDF Chief of Staff

This year we welcomed a new Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Gadi Eizenkot. At the age of 18, Lt. Gen. Eizenkot drafted into the renowned Golani Brigade as an infantry soldier. He climbed all the way to the top through diverse and challenging positions in the IDF. Throughout his service, Lt. Gen. Eizenkot was commander of the Golani Brigade, the Samaria Division (during the Second Intifada, 2000-2005), and the Northern Command. He was commander of the Operational Branch during the Second Lebanon War, and finally, deputy to the Chief of Staff.

Lions of the Jordan Valley

A new co-ed battalion was established with the purpose of integrating female soldiers into combat units. The new soldiers are in charge of routine security in the Jordan Valley and the eastern border.

Combat Intelligence Beret

A new beret color was given to the Combat Intelligence Corps. The new beret, in light yellow, identifies “combat intelligence” soldiers and replaces the former beret in dark green which is associated with the IDF Intelligence. 

Cyber Command

Alongside the ground, air and naval forces of the IDF, new warfare requires a new and advanced cyber command. This command will include operational planning, defensive and offensive tactics, and its purpose will be to protect Israel in the cyber sphere.

Newest Training Aircraft and Simulator

The Israel Air Force grew significantly stronger with the arrival of its newest training aircraft: the “Lavi”. It is designed to train pilots from the IAF Flight Academy, facilitating their transition from basic training models to advanced fighter aircraft like the F-15 and F-16I. Alongside the “Lavi”, the IAF has also acquired a new flight simulator. The simulator uses the latest technologies in software and hardware to replicate exactly how the plane maneuvers in flight, while simultaneously playing background sounds such as reactors and wind.

IDF Policy Supports Equality for Same-Sex Parents

The IDF issued a new policy that ensures that same-sex couples won’t have to simultaneously report for reserve duty. Previously, direct commanders individually determined the need for postponing reserve duty for same-sex parents. However, following the new policy, same-sex couples with children can now officially claim this right.