Under the radar: The ultra-Orthodox young men who manufacture the IDF's attack drones

At a military plant in central Israel, dozens of former yeshiva students from the ultra-Orthodox community assemble attack drones for the IDF. The facility, called "Beit HaYotzer," produces explosive drones that enable striking the enemy from a distance. The soldiers describe meaningful service alongside accommodations for the ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, and the dilemma of enlistment vis-à-vis the community.

While the debate over ultra-Orthodox enlistment in the IDF continues, at a military plant in central Israel, dozens of former yeshiva students are assembling attack drones. The facility, known as "Beit HaYotzer," assembles explosive drones from the initial stages through mission preparation, aiming to allow soldiers to strike the enemy from a distance and reduce risk. The IDF seeks to expand production after external suppliers struggled to meet demand. The ultra-Orthodox soldiers receive accommodations for their lifestyle, and some continue studying in a kollel alongside their service. One of them, referred to as 'A,' continues to attend classes; another, 'Y,' prefers not to disclose his enlistment for fear of the community's reaction. The events of October 7 prompted him to consider service. The unit hopes the project will expand and offer a model for meaningful service that combines operational needs with maintaining an ultra-Orthodox lifestyle.