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
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow]()
Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow
The Military 850 Voyageur 155 Crossover has secured orders from the US Army, Air Force and Marine Corps, addressing demand for agile Arctic mobility with passenger, cargo and towing capacity.
-
![More bidders move onto starting grid for British Army Land Rover replacement programme]()
More bidders move onto starting grid for British Army Land Rover replacement programme
The Light Mobility Vehicle segment of the UK’s Land Mobility Programme for the British Army may actually be about to make progress, or at least likely bidders seem to think so. Shephard spoke with several contenders who revealed their views on how the army should replace the ageing fleet.
-
![Northrop Grumman pushing ahead with smaller Integrated Battle Command System]()
Northrop Grumman pushing ahead with smaller Integrated Battle Command System
Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System is in service with Polish forces and is being introduced to US forces, with further development underway on the original platform as well as a smaller, more mobile system.
-
![UK’s ground-based air defence effort remains in assessment phase after third industry day]()
UK’s ground-based air defence effort remains in assessment phase after third industry day
The UK’s plan to introduce a new air defence capability into the British Army will cover short and medium-range defence as well as counter-uncrewed aerial system systems. Timelines are not yet laid out but industry is making plans.
