Israeli Drones Now Striking Iran, Expanding Reach Dramatically

The Israeli Air Force's remotely piloted drones have significantly expanded their operational range, notably conducting strikes within Iran, according to Colonel K., who recently headed the Air Force's remotely piloted aircraft division. These drones, previously operating mainly near Israel's borders, first launched from the Palmachim base to strike targets in Iran in June 2025 as part of Operation "People-Lion." Since then, they have been regularly involved in long-range missions, including destroying rockets and launchers poised to fire on Israel, thereby clearing the way for manned aircraft.

Colonel K., the first woman to command a remotely piloted aircraft unit, stated that this capability was developed rapidly in the months leading up to Operation "People-Lion." She described the pride in seeing advanced aircraft heading towards Iran and noted that these missions have continued uninterrupted. The drones' enhanced capabilities include intercepting imminent missile launches and their operational scope has grown substantially since the October 7th war.

The war has accelerated the evolution of Israel's drone program, which began with visual reconnaissance in 1971 and introduced its first strike drone, the "Zik," in 1993. By October 7, 2023, the Air Force possessed multiple drone types and squadrons, but their operations were largely confined to Israel's immediate vicinity. The conflict spurred advancements in drone firepower, allowing them to carry more munitions and reducing the need for frequent reloads. Intelligence gathering has also improved, with current systems capable of monitoring vast areas, a stark contrast to the "straw's view" of earlier technology.

Furthermore, direct communication links have been established between drone operators and ground forces, enabling real-time targeting and support. Examples include a "Nachal" brigade soldier identifying an RPG-wielding terrorist in Gaza, leading to a drone strike, and "Givati" brigade soldiers using drones to neutralize a terrorist cell preparing to launch attacks.

Colonel K. emphasized that the advancements are not solely technological but also involve recognizing the critical role of human operators, whose designation has shifted from "unmanned aerial vehicle" to "remotely piloted aircraft." The development is supported by a collaborative "ecosystem" involving the drone directorate, defense industries, and Air Force staff. Future plans include new drone squadrons and the integration of advanced models like the "Shoval" MARK 2 and Elbit's Hermes 650 by 2028, with drone units expected to handle an even greater volume of missions.