Hamas/Hezbollah threat adds weight to case for special IDF missile unit
The Extra extended-range rocket is one candidate to equip a future specialist ground-to-ground missile unit in the IDF. (Photo: IMI/Elbit)
Has the recent Gaza flare-up tipped the scales in favour of a new IDF surface-to-surface missile unit, despite air force opposition?
The new Israeli government formed in mid-June 2021 may resurrect a plan to form a specialist surface-to-surface missile unit in the IDF.
The idea was originally brought up by Avigdor Lieberman (now the influential Minister of Finance) during his tenure as Minister of Defence in 2016-2018, but it failed to gain sufficient support amid opposition from the Israeli Air Force (IAF).
Lieberman said on July 28 that he is determined to obtain the necessary funds from the IDF budget for the special unit, although the IAF is still likely to oppose the plan as the new unit may siphon money from
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![The overlooked ally: Canadian support for Ukraine surpasses some European partners]()
The overlooked ally: Canadian support for Ukraine surpasses some European partners
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Canada has committed more military assistance than France in terms of GDP.
-
![France mulls new turret options to increase its VBCI IFV’s firepower]()
France mulls new turret options to increase its VBCI IFV’s firepower
The proposed enhancements could better position the French Army’s armoured infantry fighting vehicle for future export campaigns.
-
![US Army moves towards calls for bids for medium UGV as competitors warm up]()
US Army moves towards calls for bids for medium UGV as competitors warm up
The US Army’s Medium Modular Equipment Transport Trailer (M-METT) programme is planned to provide a platform between Increment II of Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport and the Palletized Load System.
-
![Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)]()
Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)
Technology that enables armed forces to leverage existing network infrastructure can be a game-changer in many combat scenarios.
-
![Europe’s future tank hits targets as MARTE programme gains momentum]()
Europe’s future tank hits targets as MARTE programme gains momentum
An effort to develop a new European main battle tank has passed several milestones on the road to a Preliminary Design Review which is expected within two years.
-
![UK MoD clears British Army’s Ajax saying “no safety concerns when operated properly”]()
UK MoD clears British Army’s Ajax saying “no safety concerns when operated properly”
The British Army’s Ajax armoured personnel carrier has a chequered history but hopes were high when Initial Operating Capability was declared last year. More problems saw operations suspended but the MoD reports it has identified the problems and short- and medium-term solutions.
