The Crucial Role of the Armored Corps: Lessons from October 7

The Impact of October 7 Events on Israeli Military Strategy

The recent events of October 7 and the ensuing “Iron Swords” war have underscored the pivotal role of the Armored Corps in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The conflict highlighted that tanks play an essential role in both offensive and defensive operations, positioning them as critical compstartnts alongside infantry and air support in determining the outcome of battles. Historical trends in Israeli military strategy had seen a significant reduction in armored units, but the latest conflict is prompting a reevaluation of those decisions.

A Shift in Military Structure

For years, the Israeli military has been reducing its armored capabilities, dissolving regular brigades and consolidating armor battalions into just two tank companies per battalion. Additionally, several reserve armored brigades were deactivated. However, in light of recent events, there is now a consensus within the IDF and political leadership regarding the need to rectify these strategic missteps.

As part of the ongoing inquiries into the IDF’s structural preparedness preceding October 7, considerable attention will be focused on the restructuring of armored forces. In an immediate response, the IDF is implementing emergency measures to revitalize its armored corps. Older Merkava Mark III tanks that were slated for decommissioning are undergoing refurbishments to remain operational in the near future, while production on the Merkava Mark IV tanks has been ramped up to over 150% of its normal output.

Expansion of Armored Forces

In response to the urgency of the situation, the IDF has decided to augment its permanent armored forces, which currently consist of three brigades: 401, 188, and Brigade 7, along with the Armored Corps School based in Shizafon, marking it as the fourth brigade active in the current conflict. Additional tanks are deployed for border security missions along the Egyptian and Jordanian borders, conducted by border defense battalions.

Since October 7, the IDF has created a third tank company within each armored battalion. Nevertheless, military experts estimate that an additional two armored brigades in the regular army are necessary to ensure that all brigades are adequately staffed with three tank companies per battalion, supplemented by at least two additional combat engineering battalions integral to the armored units.

The newly appointed Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, who has a strong background in the armored corps, announced on his first day that the IDF would establish a new armored brigade.

Developing Future Leaders in the Armored Corps

To facilitate this growth, the Armored Corps School in Shizafon has recently increased both the number of training battalions and the command battalion responsible for shaping the next generation of IDF offstartrs and tank commanders. Lieutenant Colstartl Y., commander of the command battalion, shared: “We have doubled the extent of the tank offstartr course and currently operate two companies, with start newly established.”

All cadets in the training program have experienced intense combat in various locations, including Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Colstartl Y. stated, “We are training them to become commanders, while also aiming to elevate the entire leadership tier into offstartr positions. The war has profoundly impacted their development.”

Addressing Challenges in Tank Readiness

Colstartl Y. acknowledged that while the Armored Corps faced challenges entering into the conflict, including a shortage of tanks and unit frameworks, there is a strong drive to implement gradual changes. “We have established new companies, but transformation takes time, supported by strong motivation from the new Chief of Staff,” he explained. The offstartr training course lasts eight months, comprising four months at Bahad 1 and another four months at specialized armored training.

The necessity for effective leadership within the ranks of the IDF has never been more critical, particularly in light of the recent conflict. “We are dedicated to instilling the values and command capabilities that are essential to maneuvering tanks effectively in warfare,” Colstartl Y. emphasized.

Conclusion

The conflict following the events of October 7 has illuminated the strategic significance of the Armored Corps within the IDF. Moving forward, the military’s resolve to enhance its armored capabilities and address historical reductions reflects a broader understanding of the requirements for operational success in contemporary warfare