5 IDF Tools That Protect Israel’s Borders

1 – Patrol Balloons

These hi-tech balloons gather intelligence and patrol above Israel’s borders. What really makes the balloons stand out is their ability to remain in the sky for long periods of time. A balloon doesn’t require constant refuelling like an aircraft does, and therefore is able to supply a constant source of intelligence on a target or a suspected area. If there’s an area not visible from the ground, these surveillance balloons can reach a height and cover ground that may be difficult to detect from below.

2 – Bedouin Trackers Unit

The IDF’s Trackers Unit is comprised of a few hundred combat soldiers, most of whom come from Israel’s Bedouin community and draft as volunteers. A tracker’s work is based on following signs left by suspects. By examining footprints, trackers can decipher the age, height, direction, pace, and shoe type of the suspect. The trackers set out on missions equipped with weapons, military apparatus, and sharpened senses. Even with technology continuing to advance, the trackers’ senses on the border are irreplaceable.

3 – Unmanned Ground Vehicles

Israel has long faced threats emerging from its border with Gaza. Hamas snipers, anti-tank missiles, and explosives threaten troops patrolling the border for threats. To counter these threats, the IDF has introduced a new Unmanned Ground Vehicle, which patrols the fence around the clock. The vehicle, called “Border Protector,” is a semi-automatic 4×4 capable of carrying cameras and sensors. It makes information gathering and scanning possible in all weather conditions. In places of high risk, the remote-control vehicle can make a substantial difference.

4 – Indicative Sensorial Fence

The indicative fence has special sensors generating warnings when touched or damaged. Whenever and wherever the fence is touched, an IDF command center is immediately alerted so that the area can be checked. The verification can be done by cameras, but soldiers are sent in most cases to ensure that there has been no break-in attempt or suspicious movements.

5 – Specialized Ground Forces

Last but not least, our dedicated soldiers play an important role in defending our borders. Troops always keep their eyes open for possible threats. They are constantly patrolling along the border and alternate shifts every twelve hours. When soldiers are not on patrol, they are still on duty as an emergency support team. They are called whenever there is suspicious movement or other threats detected. Our Ordnance Corps soldiers responsible for the warning systems, are qualified and ready to keep our borders secure even under fire.

Israel’s borders are exposed to unprecedented threats. But as always, the IDF is developing new technological tools to face these threats and protect Israel’s civilians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the IDF protect Israel’s borders?
A: The IDF protects Israel’s borders using a combination of surveillance technology, specialized soldiers, unmanned ground vehicles, sensor fences, and ground forces.

Q: What technology does the IDF use for border security?
A: Patrol balloons, unmanned ground vehicles, and an indicative sensorial fence are tools used to help monitor and secure Israel’s borders.

Q: What are IDF patrol balloons used for?
A: Patrol balloons gather intelligence from above Israel’s borders and can remain in the sky for long periods of time, providing continuous surveillance of targets or suspected areas.

Q: What is the IDF Bedouin Trackers Unit?
A: The IDF Trackers Unit is made up of combat soldiers, many from Israel’s Bedouin community, who use signs such as footprints to track suspects near Israel’s borders.

Q: How does the IDF monitor the Gaza border?
A: The IDF uses tools such as unmanned ground vehicles, cameras, sensors, patrols, and specialized ground forces to monitor threats and secure high-risk border areas.

Q: Why does Israel need advanced border security tools?
A: Israel faces threats from terrorist groups, including Hezbollah on the northern border and Hamas in Gaza, as well as threats from rockets, explosives, and infiltration attempts.