Haredi soldiers of the Netzach Unit
Haredi soldiers of the Netzach UnitPhoto: Nachal Haredi

The IDF is about to implement several changes in their warfare strategy based on the findings of the first half of the multi-year Gideon Plan.

Among these changes is the decision to establish another haredi unit within the paratroopers. An IDF spokesperson explained that past experience has shown the professionalism of the haredi soldiers.

Additionally, last week the army decided to establish another mixed-gender combat unit in addition to the existing Caracal Battalion and the two other mixed-gender units.

Another change based on the Gideon plan is the reduction of career soldiers in the army. Today there are fewer than 40,000 officers and NCOs in the IDF. Before the multi-year plan began there were more than 45,000 career soldiers. This cut will save the IDF 5 billion shekels.

The second half of the Gideon plan will focus on moving the IDF training base to the south. It will also include a comprehensive stocktaking of all the emergency stores and emergency units.

An army spokesperson said, "We will focus specifically on improving the wages and conditions of the NCOs. Our goal is to improve their conditions significantly.