IDF Logistics Mastermind: 1,100 Tons of Explosives Delivered to Destroy Hezbollah Tunnels
The Israeli military has revealed details of a complex, month-long operation to destroy a significant Hezbollah underground infrastructure located in the Al-Taher mountain range in southern Lebanon. Intelligence and engineering units from the Northern Command identified key subterranean structures, described as an Iranian-funded project vital for Hezbollah's Radwan forces, designed to threaten northern Israel.
The operation involved an unprecedented logistical undertaking: transporting approximately 1,100 tons of sensitive explosives over 30 kilometers into Lebanese territory. This mission, codenamed 'Northern Arch,' required meticulous planning and execution, including navigating treacherous terrain, crossing rivers, and operating under constant threat of Hezbollah drone and rocket attacks.
Major General (res.) Rami Abudraham, head of the Technology and Logistics Directorate, personally inspected the site, emphasizing the urgency to neutralize the "monstrous infrastructure" that could have been used to direct fire and ambush IDF forces. The operation's success hinged on specialized packaging for rapid deployment, a large fleet of modified trucks, and experienced night-driving crews.
Logistics officers from the 36th Division, including Lieutenant Colonel A., who had been fighting since October 7, played a crucial role. They managed the daily transport of around 100 tons of explosives, overcoming challenges such as damaged roads, potential ambushes, and the risk of truck accidents. The troops, including the Egoz unit, secured tunnel entrances amidst heavy fighting, sometimes under fire from drones and rockets.
The operation faced numerous obstacles, including the need to build defensive berms on-site for unloading explosives directly into the tunnels via chutes. Despite the risks, including the potential for catastrophic explosions, the logistics teams worked continuously for four weeks, ensuring the explosives reached their targets hours ahead of schedule. The effort involved a massive mobilization of resources, including doubling personnel and utilizing advanced trucks and even robots for the first time in such a mission.
