How Does the D-9 Save Lives?

What is a D-9?

The IDF Caterpillar, nicknamed the ‘D-9’, is a modernized version of the D-9R bulldozer, reinforced for increased safety and durability in combat conditions. It is operated by the IDF’s Combat Engineering Corps. 

The D-9 is over 8 meters long, 4.5 meters wide and about 4 meters high, and is powered by an 18-liter diesel engine that produces 474 horsepower. The D-9 is equipped with additional armor that protects the machine and crew from direct exposure to projectiles and explosive devices. At the rear of the vehicle is a ripper, which is used to destroy concrete obstacles. 

The history of using D-9 bulldozer:

Different versions of the D-9 have participated in virtually every IDF military operation from the Six Day War to the current operation in Judea and Samaria, saving thousands of lives in neutralizing explosive sites and clearing debris. During Operation Protective Edge (2014) and Operation Guardian of the Walls (2021), D-9s played a crucial role in urban warfare, clearing booby-trapped buildings and opening safe paths for infantry.

Why and how does the IDF use D-9? 

One of the main challenges the IDF faces during its operations is the landscape. Both Gaza and Judea and Samaria, are extremely built-up urban warfare arenas, with terrorists actively using civilians as human shields, placing their military facilities and weapons in the densely populated areas. Terrorists in those areas often plant IEDs (improvised explosive devices) that are intentionally embedded in highly populated locations. 

In such conditions, tools like the D-9 bulldozer are necessary. One of its main tasks is to neutralize improvised explosive devices. Its powerful blade and armored protection allow it to safely dismantle and disarm potentially dangerous objects, minimizing the risks to civilians and IDF soldiers. In the most hazardous operations, where operator safety cannot be guaranteed, a remote-controlled version of the bulldozer is used. 

The D-9 is not only used for neutralizing threats but also for disaster relief, clearing rubble after missile strikes, and infrastructure development. Thus, the bulldozer is used in humanitarian missions, including assistance after natural and man-made disasters and infrastructure development. Most often, this machine is used to clear debris after missile strikes, which allows free roads for emergency services and quickly helps people under the rubble.

In addition, the D-9 helps remove obstacles to the delivery of humanitarian aid and establish temporary or permanent communications in damaged infrastructure. These bulldozers are often utilized in rebuilding buildings, bridges and roads where debris handling is required.