Israel Establishes New Space Division Amid Growing Military Importance

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are in advanced stages of establishing a new Space Division, consolidating all space-related military activities under one command. The division is expected to be led by a Brigadier General, with potential for future expansion into a full corps headed by a Major General. This strategic move reflects a growing recognition within the defense establishment of space's increasing significance in modern warfare.

The recent conflict, particularly tensions with Iran, highlighted the extensive use of space-based assets for intelligence gathering and communication, which facilitated IDF operations, according to the "HaYom" publication. Initially, existing space capabilities will remain with their current branches, including the Air Force, Intelligence Directorate (Aman), and the Computer Service Directorate. Unit 9900, responsible for operating defense satellites under Aman, will also retain its current structure.

A source familiar with the matter explained the necessity for a dedicated unit, stating, "The intention is to establish a body that will deal with space, wake up in the morning and go to sleep with its entire focus being space, because it is already a dimension of combat, and in the future, space will undoubtedly occupy a more central role in warfare."

Israel aims to expand its space capabilities by developing "satellite constellations" to ensure continuous information and surveillance over the Middle East. Currently, the Ministry of Defense primarily operates the "Ofek" series of satellites produced by Israel Aerospace Industries. A senior official told "HaYom," "The intention is to be a superpower in space, and for that, we need money, people, and development." He added that satellites are not solely for intelligence, as "any mission performed from the ground, we check if it can also be done from space."

Officials anticipate Israel will operate dozens of satellites within three to four years, with plans for hundreds in the future. While space-based interception is still a distant goal, it is under development, alongside offensive capabilities. The defense establishment is also monitoring Iran's space program development and potential threats to Israeli satellites.

The IDF confirmed that the planning for the Space Division is nearing completion and its details will be released soon. A military official described the establishment as one of the most significant organizational initiatives of the current Chief of Staff's tenure, with the plan set to be finalized and widely published this week.