Battle at Dawn: Druze 'Herev' Battalion Conduct Drill in Northern Israel

Choppers in the dark of night, explosives appearing out of nowhere, and a counter attack on the enemy in front- this pretty much sums up last week’s ‘Herev’ Battalion drill. The new officers of the Unique Druze ‘Herev’ Battalion conducted a drill simulating some of the most extreme scenarios.

26.02.12
IDF Editorial Team

Druze 'Herev' Battalion officer simulate extreme situations

The officers took part in a three-day training session, testing their abilities and awareness like no drill has done before. The drill started normally as the officers were tested in navigation, shooting, and tests of leadership- determining their skills to lead soldiers into battle. However, the last day was a whole different story.

The officers were awoken at the middle of the night, with a surprise scenario demanding immediate alertness. In minutes, the officers jumped into choppers stationed in the base and were taken to the simulated ‘battle scene.

Druze 'Herev' Battalion officers test their shooting abilities

While at the ‘battle front’, they encountered the enemy in the village, and were met with explosives and grenades being continuously hurled at them. During each advance on the enemy, the commanders chose one of the trainees to lead the squad. At dawn, the soldiers charged the enemy, overtaking them and winning the simulated battle.

The Herev (sword) Battalion, stationed along Israel’s northern border, is largely composed of Israeli Druze citizens, who were drafted to this special unit.