IDF radar operators (file)
IDF radar operators (file)Israel news photo: Flash 90

New radars in use on the border with Gaza have helped the IDF cut the rate of infiltrations by 70-80%, the IDF Website says.

The new radars, “Baron” and “Baroness”, employ a revolutionary new scanning technology. The IDF Website reports that they are equipped with a wide-view scanner, which makes it unnecessary for them to rotate like traditional radars, thus eliminating blind spots. The new radar can scan a section of the border and track multiple targets simultaneously, without leaving any area vulnerable.

The radar is also sensitive to objects moving at low speeds. It is even able to pick up lizards and trees waving in the breeze -- and is presumably able to differentiate between such unthreatening movement and terrorist movement.

The radar, made by Elta Systems, is based on technology that allows it to both detect and track targets while continuously monitoring the area at the same time – offering an unprecedented level of control.

The “Baron” and “Baroness” radars are being currently deployed around Gaza. Differences between the two models include range and angle of detection. Their primary use will be to detect hazards approaching the border fence, locating targets that are moving on foot and in vehicles and continuing to track their progress.

An additional advantage to the new systems is their exceptionally high resolution. These improvements allow for an accurate assessment of terrorists approaching the border.

Officers from the Southern Command have stated that since the new systems' integration along the border it has been dramatically proving its usefulness. The officers said that since the deployment of the radars, both attempted and successful border penetrations have dropped 70-80%. In addition, the radar provides excellent coverage of operational areas, assisting troops in the field. 

Two other new IDF systems are specifically intended to foil the anti-tank missile threat from Gaza.