IDF robots, often used to search smuggling tunnels and bomb-laden buildings, are able to serve in the army for several years because of a high-tech repair shop operated by the IDF. The robot "hospital" is located near Ashkelon.
The army operates several dozen robots instead of having to risk the lives of sappers, several of whom have died or suffered serious injuries while trying to neutralize explosives. Only three career officers have the technical know-how to repair the robots.