To prevent collapse, IDF attempts a manpower revolution | The data, the moves - and the concerns

The IDF is undergoing a force-building revolution to bridge a shortage of about 12,000 soldiers, including some 7,500 combat troops. The combat array has grown by tens of percent, the reserve pool has grown by about 36% with over 100,000 people, and new frameworks have been established. In the current draft cycle, two new battalions were formed. The number of Haredi recruits is expected to rise from about 2,800 to 4,300, but only about 900 will be integrated into combat roles. There has been a decrease in mental health exemptions, but an increase in attrition from service.

Under Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, the IDF is undergoing a force-building revolution that is flying under the radar, aimed at preventing collapse in a multi-front war. According to senior military sources, since the October 7 massacre, the combat array in both regular and reserve service has grown by tens of percent. The shortage stands at about 12,000 soldiers, including about 7,500 combat troops. The solution includes routing more soldiers into combat roles, massively expanding the reserve pool by about 36% with the return of over 100,000 people, and establishing new frameworks such as the Gal'ed Division and the Shomer Brigade. In the current August draft cycle, the establishment of two new battalions has begun - one in Golani and one in Nahal. The number of Haredi recruits is expected to rise from about 2,800 to 4,300, but only about 900 of them will be integrated into combat roles, with the majority preferring technological roles. There has been a decrease in mental health exemptions before enlistment, but an increase in attrition from service, with about 8,000 regular soldiers leaving each year under the 'unsuitability' clause. The IDF is trying to deal with this through programs such as 'Na'arei David' and the 'Service Array'.