The article describes how IDF drones have evolved from distant intelligence collectors into a central part of frontline firepower, especially in southern Lebanon and along the northern border. Officers say the shift is changing how troops see the battlefield, detect threats, and close attack loops within minutes.
A commander identified only as S., head of the attack exposure branch at the IDF Infantry School, recalled seeing Hezbollah explosive drones in Lebanon, including two ready for launch. “Within minutes those drones were airborne, and then we destroyed them,” he said. Using an Israeli drone, the force identified where the Hezbollah drones had been launched from and immediately struck the house they came from. “In the field, it is your eyes, for both defense and offense,” he said.
R., the commander of a company in Unit 869, the combat intelligence unit responsible for the Galilee Division’s sector, said drones have removed the old “dead space” troops once faced. He said that in Operation Protective Edge there was no such certainty, but now soldiers can see the entire area ahead. Since Operation Northern Arrows began in September 2024, his unit has helped collect intelligence for the current maneuver in southern Lebanon.
S., 32, said his branch trains IDF units to operate attack and intelligence drones, including loitering munitions that autonomously lock onto terrorists. The training lasts four intensive weeks and ends with live and dry exercises. He said every infantry company now has an attack drone and an intelligence drone, and commanders have dedicated drones that can enter buildings and scan them before soldiers go in.
The officers said Hezbollah’s main drone threat is explosive drones, but Israeli systems are more advanced. R. said Hezbollah often uses a two-stage method, first hitting soldiers and then targeting the rescue force. Israel is still working on complete countermeasures, but units already have protection nets and interception tools. The officers stressed that the system depends on the people operating it and said the goal is to remove threats and restore security to the north. The article was approved for publication by the military censor.
