Israel Establishes New Space Division to Enhance Combat Capabilities

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are in the final stages of establishing a new Space Division, which will consolidate the military's space operations and focus on force-building. The division is expected to be headed by a brigadier general, with the potential to become a full corps commanded by a major general in the future. This move reflects a growing understanding within the defense establishment that space is an increasingly significant dimension of warfare.

The recent conflict, particularly the confrontation with Iran, highlighted the extensive use of space-based assets for intelligence and communication, which facilitated IDF strikes in Iran, according to "HaYom" newspaper. Initially, existing space capabilities will remain with their respective IDF units, including the Air Force, Military Intelligence Directorate (AMAN), and the C4I Directorate. Unit 9900 of AMAN, responsible for operating defense satellites, will also continue to operate under AMAN.

A source familiar with the matter explained the necessity for the division, stating, "The intention is to establish a body that will deal with space, wake up in the morning and go to sleep with its sole focus being space, because it is already a combat dimension, and in the future, space will undoubtedly play a more central role in warfare." The defense establishment aims to expand Israel's space capabilities by developing "satellite constellations" to ensure continuous information and collection over the Middle East.

Currently, the Ministry of Defense primarily operates the "Ofek" series of satellites from Israel Aerospace Industries. A senior official told "HaYom," "The intention is to become a space power, and for that, we need money, people, and development." He added that satellites are not solely for intelligence, as any ground-based mission is being examined for potential execution from space. The official anticipates Israel will have dozens of satellites in orbit within three to four years, with plans for hundreds in the future.

While space-based interception is still a distant prospect, it is under development, alongside offensive capabilities. Iran is also developing its space sector, and the defense establishment is considering the possibility of future attempts to target hostile satellites. The IDF stated that the planning for the Space Division is nearing completion and its details will be published soon. A military source described the establishment as one of the most significant force-building initiatives of the current Chief of Staff's tenure, with the organizational framework to be finalized and widely published this week.