IDF activity
IDF activityIsrael news photo: Flash 90

The IDF Central Command has begun receiving new riot dispersal equipment, including protective suits for soldiers and an advanced GPS system, according to the official blog of the Israel Defense Forces.

The new tools are being integrated as part of the IDF’s range of measures for curbing violent riots in Judea and Samaria.

Soldiers of the Central Command have already begun using protective suits, and they will receive hundreds more in the coming month. The protective suits are designed to absorb shocks, stones and clubs.

"This suit provides a wider possibility for the soldier to approach and even to run, and it gives the soldiers more confidence," Maj. Yuval Yaron, head of weapons and technology for the Central Command, told the IDF Website. He added that the suits are lightweight and have been proven to be extremely effective.

The Central Command is also looking into the possibility of integrating a new non-lethal bullet to replace its rubber bullets. The new variety is a 40-millimeter bullet with a sponge tip, giving it the advantage of being safe at close range.

Maj. Yaron stated that the new bullets are currently undergoing testing at the Chief Medical Officer's headquarters and are expected to be integrated by the end of the year, according to the IDF blog.

Last month, the Central Command’s Fire Formation received dozens of GPS units made by GARMIN, which specializes in satellite navigation devices.

The devices are designed for navigation in the field, and they allow users to establish specialized routes. "It is a very user-friendly device which is designated for soldiers from special units only, at present," Maj. Yaron explained.