Israeli Air Force Promotes First Female Aircrew Officer to Brigadier General

The Israeli Air Force marked a historic milestone on July 13, 2026, when Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi promoted Colonel G' to the rank of Brigadier General. G', currently serving as the commander of Ovda Airbase, was appointed as the Air Attaché to Washington, D.C. With this promotion, she becomes the highest-ranking female aircrew officer in the history of the Israeli Air Force.

At 42 years old, G' has achieved several significant firsts during her military career. Since May 2024, she has been the first woman to command an airbase within the Air Force. Seven years earlier, as a lieutenant colonel, she became the first woman to command a flight squadron, specifically the "Nachshon" squadron, which operates intelligence and reconnaissance aircraft.

This appointment is unprecedented because, although other female officers have reached the rank of Brigadier General, they did so while serving in the "Green Corps" (ground forces) and only later returned to the Air Force. G' is the first female aircrew officer to attain this senior rank directly under Air Force command. The promotion was announced during a personnel placement meeting led by Chief of Staff Kochavi.

The Israeli Air Force spokesperson confirmed the historic nature of the promotion, emphasizing G's trailblazing role and the significance of her new position as Air Attaché in Washington, a key diplomatic and military liaison role.