IDF's arms race reaches space: the new capabilities on the way

The IDF is establishing a Space Brigade under the Deputy Chief of Staff, following power struggles between the Air Force, Military Intelligence, and the C4I Directorate. Defense Minister Katz accelerated the process amid operations in Iran. A campaign is underway to select the first commander, with a preference for an Air Force officer.

The IDF is establishing a new Space Brigade that will report directly to the Deputy Chief of Staff, after years of power struggles between the Air Force, Military Intelligence, and the C4I Directorate over control of the space domain. The decision was made by the General Staff as a compromise: the Air Force will be responsible for defense and attack from space, Military Intelligence for warfare and intelligence gathering, and the C4I Directorate for satellite communications. Defense Minister Israel Katz gave significant impetus to the issue, especially in light of operations in Iran, and ordered the acceleration of processes, increased budgets, and reduced bureaucracy. The goal is to upgrade capabilities for 24/7 intelligence gathering, navigation, communications, early warnings, missile and satellite defense, and space attack. Meanwhile, a campaign is underway to select the first brigade commander at the rank of Brigadier General; the Air Force proposed a Colonel, Military Intelligence a Lieutenant Colonel, and the C4I Directorate also proposed a candidate. According to sources in the process, the current tendency is to appoint an Air Force officer.