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{{Infobox national military
|country = Israel
|image = ]
|caption = Israel Defense Forces emblem
|image2 = ]
|caption2 = Flag of the Israel Defense Forces
|founded = 1948
|current_form =
|disbanded =
|branches = {{flagicon image|Israeli Army (Land Arm) Flag.svg}} ]<br />{{flagicon image|Israel Air Force Flag.svg}} ]<br />{{flagicon image|Naval Ensign of Israel.svg}} ]
<!-- Leadership -->
|minister = ]<br>]
|minister_title = ]<br>]
|commander = ] ]
|commander_title = ]
<!-- Manpower -->
|age = 17
|conscription = 18
|manpower_data = 2000 est.
|manpower_age = 17–49
|available = 1,554,186
|available_f = 1,514,063
|fit = 1,499,998
|fit_f = 1,392,319
|reaching = 54,148
|reaching_f = 47,996
|active = 176,500<ref name="INSS"> 8 May 2012.</ref> (])
|reserve = 445,000<ref name="INSS"/>
<!-- Financial -->
|amount = 57.7] billion (≈$16.5 billion)<ref name="IISS">{{citation |title=The Military Balance 2014 |pages=323–326 |publisher=] |date=February 5, 2014}}</ref>
|percent_GDP = 5.2% (2014)<ref>http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/MS.MIL.XPND.GD.ZS</ref>
<!-- Industrial -->
|domestic_suppliers = ]<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>]<br>]
|foreign_suppliers = {{flag|United States}} (1968–present)<ref name="WJS">{{cite news |title=U.S., Israel Build Military Cooperation|url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703321004575427272550050504.html
|author=Charles Levinson |date=14 August 2010|work=Wall Street Journal}}</ref><br>
{{flag|Czechoslovakia}} (1948)<ref>''New Perspectives on Israeli History: The Early Years of the State'', By Laurence Jay Silberstein, (NYU Press 1991), 232</ref><br>
{{flag|Germany}} (1998–present)<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/08/24/AR2006082401050.html |title=Israel Buys 2 Nuclear-Capable Submarines |work=The Washington Post |date=25 August 2006|accessdate=1 June 2010 |first=Ramit |last=Plushnick-Masti}}</ref><br>
{{flag|France}} (1955–1966)<ref>''France & Iraq: Oil, Arms And French Policy Making in the Middle East'', I.B.Tauris, 2 April 2006, By David Styan page 39–47</ref><!-- Related aricles -->
|history = ] (1948–1949)<br />] (1951–1956)<br />] (1956)<br />] (1967)<br />] (1967–1970)<br />] (1973)<br/>] (1978)<br />] (1982–1985)<br/>] (1985–2000)<br />] (1987–1993)<br />] (2000–2005)<br />] (2006)<br />] (2008–2009)<br />] (2012)<br />] (2014)<br />'']''
|ranks =
}}

The '''Israel Defense Forces''' ('''IDF''') ({{lang-he-n|צְבָא הַהֲגָנָה לְיִשְׂרָאֵל}} {{Audio|He-Israeli Defense Forces.ogg|''Tzva Hahagana LeYisra'el''}}, ''lit.'' "The Army of Defense for ]", commonly known in Israel by the Hebrew ] ''Tzahal'' ({{Hebrew|צה״ל}}), are the military forces of the State of ]. They consist of the ], ], and ]. The IDF is headed by its ], the ''Ramatkal'', subordinate to the ]; ] ('']'') ] has served as Chief of Staff since 2015.

An order from Defense Minister ] on 26 May 1948 officially set up the Israel Defense Forces as a ] formed out of the paramilitary group ], incorporating the ] groups ] and ]. The IDF served as Israel's armed forces in all the country's major military operations—including the ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ]. The number of wars and border conflicts in which the IDF has been involved in its short history makes it one of the most battle-trained armed forces in the world.<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Facts+About+Israel/State/THE+STATE-+Israel+Defense+Forces+-IDF-.htm |publisher=Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs |title=The State: Israel Defense Forces (IDF) |accessdate=9 August 2007 |date=13 March 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/israel/idf.htm |publisher=GlobalSecurity.org |title=Israel Defense Forces |accessdate=16 September 2007}}</ref> While originally the IDF operated on three fronts—against ] and ] in the north, ] and ] in the east, and ] in the south—after the 1979 ], it has concentrated its activities in ] and the ], including the ] and the ].

The Israel Defense Forces differs from most armed forces in the world in many ways. Differences include the mandatory conscription of women and its structure, which emphasizes close relations between the army, navy, and air force. Since its founding, the IDF has been specifically designed to match Israel's unique security situation. The IDF is one of Israeli society's most prominent institutions, influencing the country's economy, culture and political scene. In 1965, the Israel Defense Forces was awarded the ] for its contribution to education.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://cms.education.gov.il/EducationCMS/Units/PrasIsrael/Tashkag/Tashlab_Tashkag_Rikuz.htm?DictionaryKey=Tashka|title=Israel Prize recipients in 1965 (in Hebrew)|publisher=Israel Prize Official Site |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5wE6Ihijv|archivedate=3 February 2011}}</ref> The IDF uses several technologies developed in Israel, many of them made specifically to match the IDF's needs, such as the ] ], ] ], high tech weapons systems, the ] missile defense system, ] ] for vehicles, and the ] and ] assault rifles. The ] submachine gun was invented in Israel and used by the IDF until December 2003, ending a service that began in 1954. Following 1967, the IDF has close ],<ref>{{cite book |author=Mahler, Gregory S. |title=Israel After Begin |page=45 |publisher=SUNY Press |year=1990 |isbn=978-0-7914-0367-9}}</ref> including development cooperation, such as on the ] jet, ] laser defense system, and the ] defense system.

==History==
{{Refimprove section|date=January 2013}}

] (left), during the ], June 1967]]
{{Main|History of the Israel Defense Forces|Wars involving Israel|Military operations conducted by the Israel Defense Forces}}
{{Further|Jewish military history}}
The IDF traces its roots to Jewish paramilitary organizations in the ], starting with the ] (1904 to 1914).<ref>{{cite web|author=Speedy |url=http://thespeedymedia.blogspot.com/2011/09/idfs-history.html#.U4ei6F4ZffM |title=The Speedy Media: IDF's History |publisher=Thespeedymedia.blogspot.com |date=2011-09-12 |accessdate=2014-08-03}}</ref> The first such organization was ], founded in September 1907. It was converted to ] in April 1909, which operated until the ] came into being in 1920. Hashomer was an elitist organization with narrow scope, and was mainly created to protect against criminal gangs seeking to steal property. During ], the forerunners of the Haganah/IDF were the ] and the ], both of which were part of the British Army. After the ] against Jews in April 1920, the Yishuv's leadership saw the need to create a nationwide underground defense organization, and the ] was founded in June of the same year. The Haganah became a full-scale defense force after the ] with an organized structure, consisting of three main units—the ], ], and the ]. During World War II the successor to the Jewish Legion of World War I was the ].

The IDF was founded following the ], after Defense Minister and Prime Minister ] issued an order on 26 May 1948. The order called for the establishment of the Israel Defense Forces, and the abolishment of all other Jewish armed forces. Although Ben-Gurion had no legal authority to issue such an order, the order was made legal by ] on 31 May.<ref name="ostfeld-legal">{{cite book |title=An Army is Born (Vol. 1) |author=Ostfeld, Zehava |year=1994 |publisher=] |pages=104–106 |isbn=978-965-05-0695-7 |editor=ed. Shoshana Shiftel|language=he}}</ref>

The two other Jewish underground organizations, ] and ], agreed to join the IDF if they would be able to form independent units and agreed not to make independent arms purchases. This was the background for the dispute which led to the ], following a confrontation regarding the weapons purchased by the Irgun. This resulted in a battle between Irgun members and the newly created IDF. It ended when the ship carrying the arms was shelled. Following the affair, all independent Irgun and Lehi units were either disbanded or merged into the IDF. The Palmach, a strong lobby within the Haganah, also joined the IDF with ], and Ben Gurion responded by disbanding its staff in 1949, after which many senior Palmach officers retired, notably its first commander, ].

The new army organized itself during the ] when neighbouring Arab states attacked Israel. Twelve ] and ] brigades formed: ], ], ], ], ], ], the ], and ] armored brigades, ], ], ], and ].<ref name="idf-enc-11-15">{{cite encyclopedia |title=The Infantry Brigades |encyclopedia=IDF in Its Corps: Army and Security Encyclopedia |last=Pa'il |first=Meir |authorlink=Meir Pa'il |publisher=Revivim Publishing |year=1982 |page=15 |volume=Volume 11 |editor=Yehuda Schiff|language=he}}</ref> After the war, some of the brigades were converted to reserve units, and others were disbanded. Directorates and corps were created from corps and services in the Haganah, and this basic structure in the IDF ].
]
Immediately after the 1948 war, the Israel Defense Forces shifted to ] against ]. In the 1956 ], the IDF's first test of strength after 1949, the new army proved itself by capturing the ] from Egypt, which was later returned. In the 1967 ], Israel conquered the Sinai Peninsula, ], ] (including ]) and ] from the surrounding Arab states, changing the balance of power in the region as well as the role of the IDF. In the following years leading up to the ], the IDF fought a ] against Egypt in the Sinai and a border war against the ] in Jordan, culminating in the ].

The surprise of the Yom Kippur War and its aftermath completely changed the IDF's procedures and approach to warfare. Organizational changes were made{{By whom|date=January 2010}} and more time was dedicated to training for conventional warfare. However, in the following years the army's role slowly shifted again to ], ] and ]. An example of the latter was the successful 1976 ] commando raid to free hijacked airline passengers being held captive in far-off ]. During this era, the IDF also mounted a ] in ] to destroy ]'s nuclear reactor. It was involved in the ], initiating ] and later the ], where the IDF ousted Palestinian guerilla organizations from ]. Palestinian militancy has been the main focus of the IDF ever since, especially during the ] and ]s, ], the ], ], and ], causing the IDF to change many of its values and publish the ]. The Islamic ] organization ] has also been a growing threat,<ref>http://www.timesofisrael.com/hezbollah-hiding-100000-missiles-that-can-hit-north-army-says/</ref> against which the IDF fought an ] between 1982 and 2000, as well as a ] in 2006.

==Etymology==
The ] ratified the name "Israel Defense Forces" ({{lang-he-n|צְבָא הַהֲגָנָה לְיִשְׂרָאֵל}}), ''Tzva HaHagana LeYisra'el'', literally "army for the defense of Israel," on 26 May 1948. The other main contender was ''Tzva Yisra'el'' ({{lang-he-n|צְבָא יִשְׂרָאֵל}}). The name was chosen because it conveyed the idea that the army's role was defense, and because it incorporated the name ], the pre-state defensive organization upon which the new army was based.<ref name="ostfeld-name">{{cite book |title=An Army is Born (Vol. 1) |author=Ostfeld, Zehava |year=1994 |publisher=] |pages=113–116 |isbn=978-965-05-0695-7 |editor=ed. Shoshana Shiftel|language=he}}</ref> Among the primary opponents of the name were Minister ] and the ] party, both in favor of ''Tzva Yisra'el''.<ref name="ostfeld-name" />

==Organization==
], ]]]
All branches of the IDF answer to a single ]. The ] is the only serving officer having the rank of ] (''Rav Aluf''). He reports directly to the ] and indirectly to the ] and the cabinet. Chiefs of Staff are formally appointed by the cabinet, based on the Defense Minister's recommendation, for three years, but the government can vote to extend their service to four (and in rare occasions even five) years. The current chief of staff is ]. He replaced ] in 2015.

===Units===
{| class="wikitable" cellpadding="7"
! colspan="3"|'''Land Forces'''!! colspan="3"|'''Air Forces'''
|-
!Hebrew!!English!!Commander!!Hebrew!!English!!Commander
|-
||''Chulia'' || Fire Team || ''Mashak Chulia''<br>("Fire Team Leader")<br>Corporal or Sergeant || ''Tayeset''|| Air Force Squadron || Captain or Major
|-
||''Kita'' || Squad / Section || ''Mashak Kita''<br>("Squad / Section Leader")<br>Staff Sergeant || ''Kanaf'' || Air Forces Wing || Lieutenant-Colonel
|-
||''Machlekah'' || Platoon || ''Mifaked Machlekah'' ("Platoon Commander")<br>Lieutenant || ''Lahak'' || Air Force Command || Colonel
|-
||''Plugah'' || Company || ''Mifaked Plugah'' ("Company Commander")<br>Captain
|-
||''Solil-l’ah'' || Artillery Battery || Captain or Major
|-
|''Sayeret''|| Commando (Special Operations)|| Captain or Major
|-
||''Gdud'' || Battalion || Lieutenant-Colonel
|-
||''Chativa'' || Brigade || Colonel
|-
||''Ugda'' || Division || (1948-1967) Major-General<br>(1968–Present) Brigadier-General
|-
|''Gayis''
|Corps
|Major-General
|-
|}

===Structure===
The IDF includes the following bodies (those whose respective heads are members of the ] are in bold):

]

{{col-begin}}
{{col-break}}

====Regional commands====
*''']'''
*''']'''
*''']'''
*''']'''

====Arms====
''']'''
*]
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
*]
**]
**]
**]
**]
*]
*]
*]

'''Air and Space Arm'''
*]
:*]

'''Sea Arm'''
*]

====Other bodies====
'''Military:'''
*''']'''
**]
**]
**]
*''']'''
*''']'''
*''']'''
'''Civilian:'''
*'''] of the ]'''
*''']'''
*''']'''
*'''] of the ]'''
{{col-break}}

====Branches and Troops====
''']'''
*''']'''
*''']'''
**]
**]
*''']'''
**]
**]
*''']'''
*''']'''
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
**]
*''']'''
**]
**]
**]
*''']'''
**]
*''']'''
**]
**]
**]
{{col-end}}

===Related bodies===
The following bodies work closely with the IDF, but do not (or only partially) belong to its formal structure.

{{col-begin}}
{{col-break}}

====Security forces====
*]
:*]
:*]
:*]
*]
:*]
*]
*]

{{col-break}}

====Development====
* ] (IMI)
* ] (IAI)
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
{{col-end}}

===Ranks, uniforms and insignia===

====Ranks====
{{Main|Israel Defense Forces ranks}}
] (standing, third from the left). ] is standing, second from the left and commando ] is standing furthest left.]]
] on the ]]]
] warfare]]

Unlike most world armies, the IDF uses the same rank names in all corps, including the air force, and navy. All enlisted ranks, as well as some of the officer and NCO ranks, may be given as a result of time spent in service, and not for accomplishment or merit.

For ground forces' officers, rank insignia were brass on a red background; for the air force, silver on a blue background; and for the navy, the standard gold worn on the sleeve. Officer insignia were worn on epaulets on top of both shoulders. Insignia distinctive to each service were worn on the cap (see fig. 15).
] dispatched to ]]]
] and the ] light ]]]
] (2014) armed with ].]]
Enlisted grades wore rank insignia on the sleeve, halfway between the shoulder and the elbow. For the army and air force, the insignia were white with blue interwoven threads backed with the appropriate corps color. Navy personnel wore gold-colored rank insignia sewn on navy blue material.

From the formation of the IDF until the late 1980s, sergeant major was a particularly important warrant officer rank, in line with usage in other armies. However, in the 1980s and 1990s the proliferating ranks of sergeant major became devalued, and now all professional NCO ranks are a variation on sergeant major (''rav samal'') with the exception of ''rav nagad''.

All translations here are the official translations of the IDF's website.<ref name="IDF">{{cite web |url=http://dover.idf.il/IDF/English/about/insignia/ranks.htm |title=IDF Ranks |publisher=IDF |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref>

''']s''' (''Hogrim'') (Conscript ranks may be gained purely on time served)
*] (''Turai'')
*] (''Rav Turai'')
*] (''Samal'')
*] (''Samal Rishon'')

''']s''' (''Nagadim'')
*] (''Rav Samal'')
*] (''Rav Samal Rishon'')
*] (''Rav Samal Mitkadem'')
*] (''Rav Samal Bakhir'')
*] (''Rav Nagad Mishneh'')
*] (''Rav Nagad'')

'''Academic officers''' (''Ktzinim Akadema'im'')
*Professional Academic Officer (''Katzin Miktzo'i Akadema'i'')
*Senior Academic Officer (''Katzin Akadema'i Bakhir'')

''']''' (''Ktzinim'')
*] (''Segen Mishneh'')
*] (''Segen'')
*] (''Seren'')
*] (''Rav Seren'')
*] (''Sgan Aluf'')
*] (''Aluf Mishneh'')
*] (''Tat Aluf'')
*] ('']'')
*] (''Rav Aluf'')

====Uniforms====
]
]
The Israel Defense Forces has several types of uniforms:
* Service dress (מדי אלף ''Madei Alef'' – Uniform "A")&nbsp;– the everyday uniform, worn by enlisted soldiers.
* ] ( מדי ב ''Madei Bet'' – Uniform "B")&nbsp;– worn into combat, training, work on base.
The first two resemble each other but the Madei Alef is made of higher quality materials in a golden-olive while the madei bet is in ].<ref>Israeli Defence Forces since 1973, Osprey - Elite Series #8, Sam Katz 1986, ISNC 0-85045-887-8</ref><ref name="historama.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.historama.com/online-resources/history-collecting-resources/militaria/idf_israel_defense_forces_militaria_guide.html#Uniforms |title=Guide to Israeli Militaria, Insignia, Badges, Uniforms & Unit Formations at Historama.com &#124; The Online History Shop |publisher=Historama.com |date=1945-08-02 |accessdate=2014-08-03}}</ref> The dress uniforms may also exhibit a surface shine<ref name="historama.com"/><ref>http://garinmahal.com/your-first-day-in-the-idf</ref>

* Officers / Ceremonial dress (מדי שרד ''madei srad'')&nbsp;– worn by officers, or during special events/ceremonies.
* ] and ]&nbsp;– worn only abroad. There are several dress uniforms depending on the season and the branch.

The service uniform for all ground forces personnel is ]; navy and air force uniforms are ] (]). The uniforms consist of a two-pocket shirt, ], ], jacket or blouse, and shoes or boots. The navy also has an all white dress uniform. The green fatigues are the same for winter and summer and heavy winter gear is issued as needed. Women's dress parallels the men's but may substitute a skirt for the trousers.

]
Headgear included a service cap for dress and semi-dress and a ] or ] worn with fatigues. IDF personnel generally wear ]s in lieu of the service cap and there are many beret colors issued to IDF Servicemen and Women. ] are issued a maroon beret, ] brown, ] purple, ] lime green, ] camouflage, Combat Engineers gray, navy blue for IDF Naval and dark grey for IDF Air Force personnel. Other beret colors are: black for armored corps, turquoise for artillery personnel; olive drab for infantry; grey for combat engineers. For all other army personnel, except combat units, the beret for men was green and for women, black. Women in the navy wore a black beret with gold insignia. Males in the navy once wore a blue/black beret but replaced it with the ]'s ].

Some corps or units have small variations in their uniforms&nbsp;– for instance, ] wear a white belt and police hat, Naval personnel have dress whites for parades, Paratroopers are issued a four pocket Tunic (shirt) meant to be worn untucked with a pistol belt cinched tight around the waist over the shirt. The IDF air corps has a dress uniform consisting of a pale blue shirt with dark blue trousers. Similarly, while most IDF soldiers are issued black leather boots, certain units issue reddish-brown leather boots for historical reasons&nbsp;— the paratroopers, combat medics, ] and ]s, as well as some SF units (], ], ], ], ]). Women were also formerly issued ]s, but this practice has ceased.

====Insignia====
{{Main|Israel Defense Forces insignia}}
IDF soldiers have three types of insignia (other than rank insignia) which identify their corps, specific unit, and position.

A pin attached to the beret identifies a soldier's corps. Soldiers serving in staffs above corps level are often identified by the General Corps pin, despite not officially belonging to it, or the pin of a related corps. New recruits undergoing ] ('']'') do not have a pin. Beret colors are also often indicative of the soldier's corps, although most non-combat corps do not have their own beret, and sometimes wear the color of the corps to which the post they're stationed in belongs. Individual units are identified by a shoulder tag attached to the left ]. Most units in the IDF have their own tags, although those that do not, generally use tags identical to their command's tag (corps, directorate, or regional command).

While one cannot always identify the position/job of a soldier, two optional factors help make this identification: an ] attached to the left shoulder strap and shirt pocket, and a pin indicating the soldier's work type (usually given by a professional course). Other pins may indicate the corps or additional courses taken. Finally, an optional battle pin indicates a war that a soldier has fought in.

==Service==
]
]

===Military service routes===
The military service is held in three different tracks:
* '''Regular service''' (שירות חובה) – mandatory military service which is held according to the Israeli security service law.
* '''Permanent Service''' (שירות קבע) – military service which is held as part of a contractual agreement between the IDF and the permanent position holder.
* ''']''' (שירות מילואים) – a military service in which citizens are called for active duty of at most a month every year (In accordance with the Reserve Service Law), for training activities and ongoing defense activities and especially for the purpose of increasing the military forces in case of a war.

Sometimes the IDF would also hold pre-military courses (קורס קדם צבאי or קד"צ) for soon to be regular service soldiers.

===Special service routes===
* ''']''' (שוחר), a person enrolled in pre-military studies (High School, Technical College up to Eng degree, some of the קד"ץ courses) – after completing the 12th study year will do a 2-month boot-camp and, if allowed, enter a program of education to qualify as a ], with at least two weeks of training following each study year. Successful candidates will continue for an Engineering ]. ] will be enrolled into regular service if he dropped out before finished his P.A. education or in any finishing education stage (after High School, after P.A. or after receiving the bachelor's degree).
Shoher will have the ability to serve in R&D units without having the engineering credentials if an officer finds him as worthy and could recommend him for the R&D units, R&D unit have the option to provide "על תקן מהנדס" certificate for few selected personal to allow person to work on life saving or flight equipment without having an Eng. license (the certificate isn't valid for medical R&D machinery), the certificate is provided by the highest in command in the research field (as an example for the Air Force it is the Chef of Equipment Group).

* '''Civilian working for the IDF''' (אזרח עובד צה"ל), a civilian working for the military.

The ] (אגף משאבי אנוש) at the ] is the body which coordinates and assembles activities related to the control over human resources and its placement.

====Regular service====
{{Main|Conscription in Israel}}
] soldiers on their regular service]]

National military service is mandatory for all ] citizens over the age of 18, although ] (but not ]) citizens are exempted if they so please, and other exceptions may be made on religious, physical or psychological grounds (see ]). The ], which exempts ultra-orthodox Jews from service, has been the subject of several court cases as well as considerable legislative controversy.

Until the draft of July 2015, men served three years in the IDF. Men drafted as of July 2015 and later will serve 2 years and 8 months (32 months), with some roles requiring an additional 4 months of Permanent service. Women serve two years. The IDF women who volunteer for several combat positions often serve for three years, due to the longer period of training. Women in other positions, such as programmers, who also require lengthy training time, may also serve three years.

Some distinguished recruits are selected to be trained in order to eventually become members of ]. Every brigade in the IDF has its own special force branch.

Career soldiers are paid on average NIS 23,000 a month, fifty times the NIS 460 paid to conscripts.<ref></ref>

In 1998-2000, only about 9% of those who ] were granted exemption.<ref>{{cite web|last=Dayan |first=Aryeh |url=http://www.haaretz.com/print-edition/features/pacifists-are-fighting-hard-against-the-draft-1.51499 |title=Pacifists are fighting hard against the draft - Israel News |publisher=Haaretz |date=3 March 2002 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

====Permanent service====
]]]
]
Permanent service is designed for soldiers who choose to continue serving in the army after their regular service, for a short or long period, and in many cases making the military their career. Permanent service usually begins immediately after the mandatory Regular service period, but there are also soldiers who get released from military at the end of the mandatory Regular service period and who get recruited back to the military as Permanent service soldiers in a later period.

Permanent service is based on a contractual agreement between the IDF and the permanent position holder. The service contract defines how long the soldier's service would be, and towards the end of the contract period a discussion may rise on the extension of the soldier's service duration. Many times, regular service soldiers are required to commit to a permanent service after the mandatory Regular service period, in exchange for assigning them in military positions which require a long training period.

In exchange for the Permanent service, the Permanent service soldiers receive full wages, and when serving for a long period as a permanent service soldier, they are also entitled for a pension from the army. This right is given to the Permanent service soldiers in a relatively early stage of their life in comparison to the rest of the Israeli retirees.

====Reserve service====
{{main|Reserve duty (Israel)}}
After personnel complete their regular service, they are either granted permanent exemption from military service, or assigned a position in the reserve forces. There is no distinction between assignment of men or women to reserve service.

The IDF may call up reservists for:
* reserve service of up to one month every three years, until the age of 40 (enlisted) or 45 (officers). Reservists may volunteer after this age, with approval of the Manpower Directorate.
* immediate active duty in war time.

In most cases, the reserve duty is carried out in the same unit for years, in many cases the same unit as the active service and by the same people. Many soldiers who have served together in active service continue to meet in reserve duty for years after their discharge, causing reserve duty to become a strong ] experience in Israeli society.

Although still available for call-up in times of crisis, most Israeli men, and virtually all women, do not actually perform reserve service in any given year. Units do not always call up all of their reservists every year, and a variety of exemptions are available if called for regular reserve service. Virtually no exemptions exist for reservists called up in a time of crisis, but experience has shown that in such cases (most recently, the 2014 Operation Protective Edge) exemptions are rarely requested or exercised; units generally achieve recruitment rates above those considered fully manned.

]
Legislation (Approved in April 2008) has reformed the reserve service, lowering the maximum service age to 40 for enlisted, and 45 for officers, designating it as an emergency and security force (disallowing routine duties that may be carried out by the active forces), as well as many other changes to the structure (although the Defense Minister can suspend any portion of it at any time for security reasons). The age threshold for many reservists whose positions are listed and updated yearly by the Knesset through the Occupations executive order is fixed at 45 or 49, depending on their military occupation and position.

===Non-IDF service===
Other than the National Service ('']''), IDF conscripts may serve in bodies other than the IDF in a number of ways.

The combat option is ] (''Magav'' – the exact translation from Hebrew means "border guard") service, part of the ]. Some soldiers complete their IDF combat training and later undergo additional ] and Border Police training. These are assigned to Border Police units. The Border Police units fight side by side with the regular IDF combat units though to a lower capacity. They are also responsible for security in heavy urban areas such as ] and security and crime fighting in rural areas.

Non-combat services include the Mandatory Police Service (''Shaham'') program, where youth serve in the ], ], or other wings of the ] instead of the regular army service.

===Women===
{{Main|Women in the Israel Defense Forces}}
], which serves in routine security missions]]
]
Israel is one of only a few nations that conscript women or deploy them in combat roles, although in practice, women can avoid conscription through a religious exemption and over a third of Israeli women do so.<ref> The Jewish Daily Forward, 16 Dec 2009</ref>

Civilian pilot and aeronautical engineer Alice Miller successfully petitioned the High Court of Justice to take the Israeli Air Force pilot training exams, after being rejected on grounds of gender. Though president ], a former IAF commander, told Miller that she would be better off staying home and darning socks, the court eventually ruled in 1996 that the IAF could not exclude qualified women from pilot training. Even though Miller would not pass the exams, the ruling was a watershed, opening doors for women in new IDF roles. Female legislators took advantage of the momentum to draft a bill allowing women to volunteer for any position, if they could qualify.<ref name="feldinger">{{cite news|author=Lauren Gelfond Feldinger|title=Skirting history|work=The Jerusalem Post|accessdate=22 March 2011|date=21 September 2008|url=http://www.jpost.com/Home/Article.aspx?id=114834}}</ref>

In 2000, the Equality amendment to the Military Service law stated that the right of women to serve in any role in the IDF is equal to the right of men.<ref name=mfaWomen>{{cite web|title=Integration of women in the IDF|publisher=Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs|url=http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Israel+beyond+politics/Integration_women_in_IDF-March_2009 |accessdate=23 March 2011|date=8 March 2009}}</ref> A study of women in the IDF from 2002 to 2005 found that women are often superior in discipline, motivation and marksmanship. However, the study noted that women still face gender discrimination in the IDF.<ref>http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2013/13/130125-women-combat-world-australia-israel-canada-norway/</ref> Women have taken part in Israel’s military before and since the founding of the state in 1948.<ref name=womenIDF>{{cite web|title=Women in the IDF|url=http://idfspokesperson.com/2011/03/07/women-in-the-idf/|publisher=Israel Defense Forces|accessdate=22 March 2011|date=7 March 2011}}</ref> Women started to enter combat support and light combat roles in a few areas, including the Artillery Corps, infantry units and armored divisions. A few platoons named Karakal were formed for men and women to serve together in light infantry. By 2000 Karakal became a ], with a second mixed-gender battalion, Lions of the Jordan (אריות הירדן, Arayot Ha-Yarden) formed in 2015. Many women would also join the ].<ref name="feldinger" />

In June 2011, Maj. General ] became the first female major general in the IDF, replacing head of the directorate Maj. General Avi Zamir. Barbivai stated, "I am proud to be the first woman to become a major general and to be part of an organization in which equality is a central principle. 90 percent of jobs in the IDF are open to women and I am sure that there are other women who will continue to break down barriers."<ref name="The Jerusalem Post">{{cite news|last=Katz|first=Yaakov|title=Orna Barbivai becomes first female IDF major general|url=http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=226336|accessdate=10 July 2012|newspaper=The Jerusalem Post|date=23 July 2011}}</ref><ref name="Yedioth Ahronot">{{cite news|last=Greenberg|first=Hanan|title=IDF names 1st female major-general|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4074563,00.html|accessdate=10 July 2012|newspaper=Yedioth Ahronot|date=26 May 2011}}</ref>

In 2013, the IDF announced they would, for the first time, allow a (MTF) transgender woman to serve in the army as a female soldier.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://awiderbridge.org/transgender-in-the-idf/#sthash.ZAUcxHOz.dpuf |title=Transgender in the IDF |publisher=AWiderBridge |date=2013-08-07 |accessdate=2014-08-03}}</ref>

As of 2010, 88% of all roles in the IDF are open to female candidates. and women could be found in 69% of all IDF positions.<ref> IDF, 25 Aug 2010</ref> Elana Sztokman notes it would be "difficult to claim that women are equals in the IDF." The IDF concedes that fewer than 4 percent of women are in combat positions. Rather, they are concentrated in "combat-support" positions which command a lower compensation and status than combat positions. "And tellingly, there is only one female general in the entire IDF," she adds.<ref> The Atlantic, 7 Aug 2014</ref> In 2012 religious soldiers claimed they were promised they would not have to listen to women sing or lecture, but IAF Chief Rabbi Moshe Raved resigned because male religious soldiers were being required to do so.<ref> YNET, 4 Jan 2012</ref> In January 2015 three women IDF singers performed in one of the IDF's units. The performance was first disrupted by fifteen religious soldiers, who left in protest and then the Master Sergeant forced them to end the performance because it was disturbing the religious soldiers. An IDF spokesperson announced an investigation of the incident: "We are aware of the incident and already began examining it. The exclusion of woman is not consistent with the values of the IDF."<ref> Jerusalem Online, 11 Jan 2015</ref> Defense Minister ] has also arranged for women to be excluded from recruitment centers catering to religious males.<ref> YNET, 31 Oct 2014</ref> As the IDF recruits more religious soldiers, the rights of male religious soldiers and of women in the IDF come into conflict. Brig. Gen. Zeev Lehrer, who served on the chief of staff's panel of the integration of women, noted "There is a clear process of 'religionization’ in the army, and the story of the women is a central piece of it. There are very strong pressures at work to halt the process of integrating women into the army, and they are coming from the direction of religion."<ref> Slate, 11 Oct 2012</ref> Gender segregation or ] is allowed in the IDF, and the IDF reached what it considers a "new milestone" in 2006, creating the first company of soldiers segregated in an all female unit, the Nachshol (Hebrew for "giant wave") Reconnaissance Company. "We are the only unit in the world made up entirely of female combat soldiers," said Nachshol Company Commander Cpt. Dana Ben-Ezra. "Our effectiveness and the dividends we earn are the factors by which we are measured, not our gender."<ref> IDF, 27 Jan 2013</ref>

==Minorities in the IDF==
Non-Jewish minorities tended to serve in one of several special units: the ], also known as Unit 300; the Druze Reconnaissance Unit; and the Trackers Unit, which comprised mostly ]. In 1982, the IDF general staff decided to integrate the armed forces by opening up other units to minorities, while placing some Jewish conscripts in the Minorities Unit. Until 1988, the intelligence corps and the air force remained closed to minorities.

===Druze and Circassians===
] commander of the IDF Herev battalion]]

Although Israel has a majority of Jewish soldiers, large numbers of ] and ] men are subject to mandatory conscription to the IDF just like ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aka.idf.il/brothers/skira/default.asp?catId=57478&docId |title=IDF human resources site |publisher=IDF |accessdate=10 June 2010|language=he}}</ref> Originally, they served in the framework of a special unit called "The Minorities' Unit", which operated until 2015 in the form of the independent Herev ]. However, since the 1980s, Druze soldiers have increasingly protested this practice, which they considered a means of segregating them and denying them access to elite units (like ] units). The army has increasingly admitted Druze soldiers to regular combat units and promoted them to higher ranks from which they had been previously excluded. In 2015, Rav Aluf ] has ordered the unit's closure in order to assimilate the Druze soldiers no differently than Jewish soldiers, as part of an ongoing reorganization of the army. In recent years, several Druze officers have reached ranks as high as Major General and many have received commendations for distinguished service. In proportion to their numbers, the Druze people achieve much higher—documented—levels in the Israeli army than other soldiers. Nevertheless, some Druze still charge that discrimination continues, such as exclusion from the ], although the official low security classification for Druze has been abolished for some time. The first Druze aircraft navigator completed his training course in 2005; his identity is protected as are those of all air force pilots. During the ], many Druze who had initially sided with the Arabs deserted their ranks to either return to their villages or side with Israel in various capacities.<ref name="Gelber">{{cite news |title= Druze and Jews in the war of 1948. (Israel-Arab War of 1948–49)|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-16921885.html|author=Gelber, Yoav |date=1 April 1995|work=Middle Eastern Studies}}</ref>

Since the late 1970s, the ], centered at the village of ] and linked to the ], has campaigned to abolish Druze conscription.

Military service is a tradition among some of the Druze population, with most opposition in Druze communities of the ]; 83 percent of Druze boys serve in the army, according to the IDF's statistics.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.jpost.com/Home/Article.aspx?id=129391 |title=Covenant of blood |work=] |author=Larry Derfner |date=15 January 2009 |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref> According to the Israeli army, 369 Druze soldiers have been killed in combat operations since 1948.<ref></ref>

===Bedouins and Israeli Arabs===
]
] in 1978]]
]

By law, all Israeli citizens are subject to conscription. The Defense Minister has complete discretion to grant exemption to individual citizens or classes of citizens. A long-standing policy dating to Israel's early years extends an exemption to all other Israeli minorities (most notably ]s). However, there is a long-standing government policy of encouraging ]s to volunteer and of offering them various inducements, and in some impoverished Bedouin communities a military career seems one of the few means of (relative) social mobility available. Also, Muslims and Christians are accepted as volunteers, even at an age greater than 18.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aka.idf.il/brothers/skira/default.asp?catId=57479&docId= |title=IDF Human Resources site |accessdate=10 June 2010|language=he}}</ref>

From among non-Bedouin Arab citizens, the number of volunteers for military service—some ] and even a few Muslim Arabs—is minute, and the government makes no special effort to increase it. Six Israeli Arabs have received orders of distinction as a result of their military service; of them the most famous is a Bedouin officer, Lieutenant Colonel Abd el-Majid Hidr (also known as ]), who received the Order of Distinction. Vahid el Huzil was the first Bedouin to be a battalion commander.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nrg.co.il/online/1/ART2/271/121.html |title=History in Tzahal the first Bedouin to be Battalion Commander |publisher=Nrg.co.il |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.walla.co.il/?w=/9/782336 |title=a Bedouin officer got the command on a battalion |publisher=News.walla.co.il |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> Recently, a Bedouin officer was promoted to the rank of Colonel.{{Citation needed|date=February 2007}}

Until the second term of ] as Prime Minister (1992–1995), social benefits given to families in which at least one member (including a grandfather, uncle or cousin) had served at some time in the armed forces were significantly higher than to "non-military" families, which was considered a means of blatant discrimination between Jews and Arabs. Rabin had led the abolition of the measure, in the teeth of strong opposition from the Right. At present, the only official advantage from military service is the attaining of security clearance and serving in some types of government positions (in most cases, security-related), as well as some indirect benefits.

Rather than perform army service, Israeli Arab youths have the option to volunteer to ] and receive benefits similar to those received by discharged soldiers. The volunteers are generally allocated to Arab populations, where they assist with social and community matters. {{As of|2010}} there are 1,473 Arabs volunteering for national service. According to sources in the national service administration, Arab leaders are counseling youths to refrain from performing services to the state. According to a National Service official, "For years the Arab leadership has demanded, justifiably, benefits for Arab youths similar to those received by discharged soldiers. Now, when this opportunity is available, it is precisely these leaders who reject the state's call to come and do the service, and receive these benefits".<ref>, by Aviel Magnezi. YNet, 25 October 2010, 14:47</ref>

Although Arabs are not obligated to serve in IDF, any Arab can volunteer. A Muslim Arab woman is currently serving as a medic with unit 669.<ref>"First female Arab soldier joins elite unit 669 ", :
:"Muslim soldier serving as medic on IAF’s special airborne search and rescue unit is candidate to become airborne medic"</ref>

Cpl. ] from ] became the first female Arab combat soldier for IDF. Elinor said "there was a Katyusha that fell near my house and also hurt Arabs. If someone would tell me that serving in the IDF means killing Arabs, I remind them that Arabs also kill Arabs."<ref>Cpl. Elinor Joseph, first female Arab combat soldier in IDF: "proud to serve" ", {{Citation needed|date=April 2011}} "I treated all the people at the checkpoints in the same manner, because we are all human. For this reason, no one reacted to me in a negative manner, and to tell the truth, that surprised me." Elinor’s presence also helped change people’s perceptions, "People knew I was there and that I wouldn’t hold my tongue if need be, so they had a constant reminder to treat the Palestinians well. But really, their treatment was always full of respect."</ref>

Other Arab-Muslim officers in the IDF are Hisham Abu Varia, who is currently a ],<ref name="ynetFirsftOff">{{cite news|last=Pevzner|first=Yana|title=The lone Arab Soldier|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3968706,00.html|accessdate=27 October 2010|newspaper=Ynet|date=13 October 2010}}</ref> and ] Ala Wahib, who is currently the highest ranking Muslim officer in the IDF.<ref>{{cite news |title=An officer and a Muslim Zionist |author=Michal Yaakov Yitzhaki |url=http://www.israelhayom.com/site/newsletter_article.php?id=5727 |newspaper=] |date=7 September 2013 |accessdate=20 June 2013}}</ref>
] soldier]]

In October 2012, the IDF promoted Mona Abdo to become the first female Christian Arab to the rank of combat commander. Abdo had voluntarily enlisted in the IDF, which her family had encouraged, and transferred from the ] to the ], a mixed-gender unit with both Jewish and Arab soldiers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.algemeiner.com/2012/10/18/israel-promotes-first-female-christian-arab-to-combat-commander/ |title=Israel Promotes First Female Christian Arab to Combat Commander |publisher=The Algemeiner |date=18 October 2012 |accessdate=21 October 2012}}</ref>

Recently, there has been an increase of Israeli Christian Arabs joining the army.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/.premium-1.573172 |title=Israeli army sees increase in Christian Arab recruits |work=Haaretz |date=9 February 2014 |accessdate=11 February 2014}}</ref>

===Ethiopian Jews===
The IDF carried out extended missions in ] and neighboring states, whose purpose was to protect ] (Beta Israel) and to help their immigration to Israel.<ref>''The Jewish State: The Struggle for Israel's Soul''. Yoram Hazony. 2001. Page 54</ref> The IDF adopted policies and special activities for absorption and integration of Ethiopian immigrant soldiers, which resulted in great positive impact on the achievements and integration of those soldiers in the army as well as Israeli society in general.<ref>The Beta Israel in Ethiopia and Israel: studies on Ethiopian Jews By Tudor Parfitt, Emanuela Trevisan Semi. p.170</ref><ref>Israel social science research, Volumes 10–11. Hubert H. Humphrey Center for Social Ecology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 1995. p.70</ref> Statistical research showed that the Ethiopian soldiers are esteemed as excellent soldiers and many aspire to be recruited to combat units.<ref>''Becoming Ethiopian Israelis: An Appraisal of the Adjustment of the Ethiopian Jewish Community to Israeli Society''. Ami Steinberger, Pepperdine University. 2006. p.24</ref>

===Haredim===
]]]

Men in the ] community may choose to defer service while enrolled in '']'' (see ]); many avoid conscription altogether. This special arrangement is called ], and has given rise to ] between the Israeli religious and secular communities. While options exist for Haredim to serve in the IDF in an atmosphere conducive to their religious convictions, most Haredim do not choose to serve in the IDF.

Haredi males have the option of serving in the ]. This unit is a standard IDF infantry battalion focused on the ] region. To allow Haredi soldiers to serve, the Netzah Yehuda military bases follow the highest standards of ]; the only women permitted on these bases are wives of soldiers and officers. Additionally, some Haredim serve in the IDF via the ] system, principally designed for the ] sector; it is a 5-year program which includes 2 years of religious studies, 1½ years of military service and 1½ years of religious studies during which the soldiers can be recalled to active duty at any moment. Haredi soldiers are permitted to join other units of the IDF as well, but rarely do.

The IDF has identified an urgent gap of hundreds of soldiers in their technical units that might be filled by the Haredi. The IAF is currently using ]s to fill in the gaps and continue operations.<ref>Harel, Amos. ''Haaretz'', 10 June 2012.</ref>

Although the IDF claims it will not discriminate against women, it is offering Haredim "women free and secular free" recruitment centers. Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon expressed his willingness to relax regulations to meet the demands of ultra-Orthodox rabbis. Regulations regarding gender equality had already been relaxed so that Haredim could be assured that men would not receive physical exams from female medical staff.<ref>http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4586197,00.html</ref>

===LGBT people===<!-- Linked to by Sexual orientation and military service#Israel-->
{{Further|Sexual orientation and military service#Israel}}

Israel is one of 24 nations that allow openly gay individuals to serve in the military. Since the early 1990s, sexual identity presents no formal barrier in terms of soldiers' military specialization or eligibility for promotion.<ref name="eichner" /><ref>Suzanne B. Goldberg, "Open Service and Our Allies: A Report on the Inclusion of Openly Gay and Lesbian Servicemembers in U.S. Allies' Armed Forces," ''William & Mary Journal of Women & Law'' (2011) v 17 pp 547–90 </ref>

Until the 1980s, the IDF tended to discharge soldiers who were openly gay. In 1983, the IDF permitted homosexuals to serve, but banned them from intelligence and top-secret positions. A decade later, Professor Uzi Even,<ref name="barbara" /> an IDF reserves officer and chairman of ]'s Chemistry Department revealed that his rank had been revoked and that he had been barred from researching sensitive topics in military intelligence, solely because of his sexual orientation. His testimony to the ] in 1993 raised a political storm, forcing the IDF to remove such restrictions against gays.<ref name="eichner">{{cite news|last=Eichner|first=Itamar|title=Follow Israel's example on gays in the military, US study says|publisher=Ynetnews|accessdate=10 June 2010|date=8 February 2007|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3362505,00.html}}</ref>

The chief of staff's policy states that it is strictly forbidden to harm or hurt anyone's dignity or feeling based on their gender or sexual orientation in any way, including signs, slogans, pictures, poems, lectures, any means of guidance, propaganda, publishing, voicing, and utterance. Moreover, gays in the IDF have additional rights, such as the right to take a shower alone if they want to. According to a ] study,<ref name="barbara">{{cite web|url=http://www.filmforum.org/films/yossi/israelstudyafs.pdf |title=Homosexuality and the Israel Defense Forces: Did Lifting the Gay Ban Undermine Military Performance? |format=PDF |accessdate=1 October 2010}}</ref> a brigadier general stated that Israelis show a "great tolerance" for gay soldiers. Consul ] at the Israeli Consulate in New York, who was interviewed by the ''St. Petersburg Times'', said, "It's a non-issue. You can be a very good officer, a creative one, a brave one, and be gay at the same time."<ref name="eichner" />

A study published by the ] (IGY) Movement in January 2012 found that half of the homosexual soldiers who serve in the IDF suffer from violence and homophobia, although the head of the group said that "I am happy to say that the intention among the top brass is to change that."<ref>{{cite news |title=http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=273609 |title=Does viral IDF Gay Pride photo show full picture? |author= Yaakov Katz |newspaper=Jerusalem Post |date=12 June 2012}}</ref>

===Deaf and hard-of-hearing people===
Israel is the only country in the world that requires the deaf and hard-of-hearing people to serve in the conscription or military.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=11734 |title=IDF enables diabetes victims, deaf to be drafted |work=Jerusalem Post |date=2006-01-31 |accessdate=2014-08-03}}</ref> Sign language interpreters are provided during training, and many of them serve in the non-combat capacities such as mappers, office work, and the like. The deaf and hard-of-hearing people who have served in the IDF have better opportunities in employment, housing, education, and other areas than those who do not serve. In addition, they gain a greater respect and recognition for their service and contribution to the country as well as stronger self-esteem and motivation.<ref></ref>

===Vegans===
According to a ] report, vegans in the IDF may refuse vaccination if they oppose animal testing. They are provided with special allowances to buy their own food. They are also given artificial leather boots.<ref name="C2-20121103">{{cite web|url=http://www.care2.com/news/member/296771588/3479034|title=Israel: Veganism promoted in defence forces|date=3 November 2012|publisher=]|accessdate=11 November 2012}}</ref>

===Volunteers===
In cases when a citizen cannot be normally drafted by the law (old age, served as a soldier in a different country, severe health problems, handicaps, autism, etc.), the person could enroll as a volunteer in places where his knowledge can be used or in cases where there is a base that accepts volunteer service from one day per week up to full 24/7 service based upon that person's abilities and wishes.

==Overseas volunteers==
Non-immigrating foreign volunteers typically serve with the IDF in one of five ways:
* The ] program targets young non-Israeli Jews (men younger than 24 and women younger than 21). The program consists typically of 18 months of IDF service, including a lengthy training for those in combat units or (for 18 months) one month of non-combat training and additional two months of learning ] after enlisting, if necessary. There are two additional subcategories of Mahal, both geared solely for religious men: Mahal ] (18 months), and Mahal ], which combines yeshiva study of 5 months with IDF service of 16 months, for a total of 21 months. Similar IDF programs exist for Israeli overseas residents. To be accepted as a Mahal Volunteer, one must be of Jewish descent (at least one Jewish grandparent).
* ], an organization subordinate to the Israeli ], provides a volunteer program for non-Israeli citizens who are 17 years or older (or 15 if accompanied by a parent). The program is also aimed at Israeli citizens, aged 30 years or older, living abroad who did not serve in the Israeli Army and who now wish to finalize their status with the military. The program usually consists of three weeks of volunteer service on different rear army bases, doing non-combative work.
* ] offers a program mainly for Israelis who emigrated with their parents to the United States at a young age. Although a basic knowledge of the Hebrew language is not mandatory, it is helpful. Of all the programs listed, only Garin Tzabar requires full-length service in the IDF. The program is set up in stages: first the participants go through five seminars in their country of origin, then have an absorption period in Israel at a ]. Each delegation is adopted by a kibbutz in Israel and has living quarters designated for it. The delegation shares responsibilities in the kibbutz when on military leave. Participants start the program three months before being enlisted in the army at the beginning of August.
* ] is short-term basic training for two months.
* ] is a program based at ] which takes a holistic approach to preparation for service. Being as ready as possible for integrating into Israeli culture, handling the physical challenges of the military, and maintaining religious values require a multi-pronged approach. The beit midrash learning, classes, physical training, and even the recreational activities are designed to allow for maximum readiness.
* The 2014 ] ] ''Beneath the Helmet'' revolves around 5 real-life IDF soldiers, two of which are from overseas; one from ], and one from ].

==Doctrine==
{{double image|right|Flickr - Israel Defense Forces - Live Interoperability Drill Simulates Enemy Village Takeover (1).jpg|250|Flickr - Israel Defense Forces - Live Interoperability Drill Simulates Enemy Village Takeover (2).jpg|250|A live ] exercise simulates an enemy village takeover in southern Israel. IDF infantry, artillery, tank and air forces simulated taking control of an enemy village.}}

===Mission===
] ]A Netz 107 with 6.5 killing marks of other aircraft and one killing mark of ], a world record for a single F-16 fighter]]
]
The IDF mission is to "defend the existence, territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state of Israel. To protect the inhabitants of Israel and to combat all forms of terrorism which threaten the daily life."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://dover.idf.il/IDF/English/about/doctrine/default.htm |title=IDF desk – Doctrine, Mission |publisher=Dover.idf.il |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref>

===Main doctrine===
The main doctrine consists of the following principles:<ref>{{cite web|url=http://dover.idf.il/IDF/English/about/doctrine/main_doctrine.htm |title=IDF desk – Main Doctrine |publisher=Dover.idf.il |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref>

====Basic points====
* Israel cannot afford to lose a single war
* Defensive on the strategic level, no territorial ambitions
* Desire to avoid war by political means and a credible deterrent posture
* Preventing escalation
* Determine the outcome of war quickly and decisively
* Combating terrorism
* Very low casualty ratio

====Prepare for defense====
* A small ] with an early warning capability, regular air force and navy
* An efficient reserve mobilization and transportation system

====Move to counterattack====
* Multi-arm coordination
* Transferring the battle to enemy territory quickly
* Quick attainment of war objectives

===Code of conduct===
In 1992, the IDF drafted a Code of Conduct that combines international law, Israeli law, Jewish heritage and the IDF's own traditional ethical code—the IDF Spirit ({{lang-he|רוח צה"ל}}, ''Ru'ah Tzahal'').<ref name="idf-spirit">{{cite web |url=http://dover.idf.il/IDF/English/about/doctrine/ethics.htm |title=Ethics – The IDF Spirit |publisher=] |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref>

====Stated values of the IDF====
]

The document defines three core values for all IDF soldiers to follow, as well as ten secondary values (the first being most important, and the others appearing sorted in Hebrew alphabetical order):<ref name="idf-spirit" />

;Core values:
* '''Defense of the State, its Citizens and its Residents''' – "The IDF's goal is to defend the existence of the State of Israel, its independence and the security of the citizens and residents of the state."
* '''Love of the Homeland and Loyalty to the Country''' – "At the core of service in the IDF stand the love of the homeland and the commitment and devotion to the State of Israel-a democratic state that serves as a national home for the Jewish People-its citizens and residents."
* '''Human Dignity''' – "The IDF and its soldiers are obligated to protect human dignity. Every human being is of value regardless of his or her origin, religion, nationality, gender, status or position."

;Other values:
]]]
]
] soldiers pay respect to fallen comrades at ]'s Military Cemetery]]

* '''Tenacity of Purpose in Performing Missions and Drive to Victory''' – "The IDF servicemen and women will fight and conduct themselves with courage in the face of all dangers and obstacles; They will persevere in their missions resolutely and thoughtfully even to the point of endangering their lives."
* ''']''' – "The IDF servicemen or women will see themselves as active participants in the defense of the state, its citizens and residents. They will carry out their duties at all times with initiative, involvement and diligence with common sense and within the framework of their authority, while prepared to bear responsibility for their conduct."
* ''']''' – "The IDF servicemen and women shall present things objectively, completely and precisely, in planning, performing and reporting. They will act in such a manner that their peers and commanders can rely upon them in performing their tasks."
* '''Personal Example''' – "The IDF servicemen and women will comport themselves as required of them, and will demand of themselves as they demand of others, out of recognition of their ability and responsibility within the military and without to serve as a deserving role model."
* '''Human Life''' – "The IDF servicemen and women will act in a judicious and safe manner in all they do, out of recognition of the supreme value of human life. During combat they will endanger themselves and their comrades only to the extent required to carry out their mission."
* ''']''' – "The soldier shall make use of his weaponry and power only for the fulfillment of the mission and solely to the extent required; he will maintain his humanity even in combat. The soldier shall not employ his weaponry and power in order to harm non-combatants or prisoners of war, and shall do all he can to avoid harming their lives, body, honor and property."
* ''']''' – "The IDF servicemen and women will acquire the professional knowledge and skills required to perform their tasks, and will implement them while striving continuously to perfect their personal and collective achievements."
* '''Discipline''' – "The IDF servicemen and women will strive to the best of their ability to fully and successfully complete all that is required of them according to orders and their spirit. IDF soldiers will be meticulous in giving only lawful orders, and shall refrain from obeying blatantly illegal orders."
* '''Comradeship''' – "The IDF servicemen and women will act out of fraternity and devotion to their comrades, and will always go to their assistance when they need their help or depend on them, despite any danger or difficulty, even to the point of risking their lives."
* '''Sense of Mission''' – "The IDF soldiers view their service in the IDF as a mission; they will be ready to give their all in order to defend the state, its citizens and residents. This is due to the fact that they are representatives of the IDF who act on the basis and in the framework of the authority given to them in accordance with IDF orders."

====Military ethics of fighting terror====
]
]
]
In 2005, ] and ] co-authored a noticed article published in the ''Journal of Military Ethics'' under the title: "Military Ethics of Fighting Terror: An Israeli Perspective". The article was meant as an "extension of the classical Just War Theory", and as a " third model" or missing paradigm besides which of "classical war (army) and law enforcement (police).", resulting in a "doctrine (...) on the background of the IDF fight against acts and activities of terror performed by Palestinian individuals and organizations."<ref>{{Cite journal | doi = 10.1080/15027570510014642| title = Military Ethics of Fighting Terror: An Israeli Perspective (abstract)| date = April 2005| last1 = Kasher | first1 = A. | last2 = Yadlin | first2 = A. | journal = Journal of Military Ethics| volume = 4| issue = 1| pages = 3–32}}</ref>

In this article, Kasher and Yadlin came to the conclusion that ]s of terrorists were justifiable, even at the cost of hitting nearby civilians. In a 2009 interview to '']'', Asa Kasher later confirmed, pointing to the fact that in an area in which the IDF does not have effective security control (e.g., Gaza, vs. Est-Jerusalem), soldiers' lives protection takes priority over avoiding injury to enemy civilians.<ref></ref> Some, along with ] and ], have recused this argument, advancing that such position was "contrary to centuries of theorizing about the morality of war as well as international humanitarian law",<ref></ref> since drawing "a sharp line between combatants and noncombatants" would be "the only morally relevant distinction that all those involved in a war can agree on."<ref></ref>

The article was intended to (then Chief of Staff) ], to serve as a basis for a new "code of conduct". Although Moshe Ya'alon did endorse the article's views, and is reported to have presented it numerous times before military forums, it was never actually turned into a binding IDF document or an actual "code", neither by Ya'alon nor its successors. However, the document have since reportedly been adapted to serve as educational material, designed to emphasizes the right behavior in ] against terrorists, where soldiers must operate within a civilian population.<ref></ref>

As of today "The Spirit of the IDF" (cf. supra) is still considered the only biding moral code that formally applies to the IDF troops. In 2009, ] (then head of ]) suggested that the article he co-authored with ] be ratified as a formal binding code, arguing that "the current code does not sufficiently address one of the army's most pressing challenges: ] against terrorist organizations that operate amid a civilian population".<ref></ref>

The 11 key points highlighted in the article and educational material mentioned above:
# Military action can be taken only against military targets.
# The use of force must be proportional.
# Soldiers may only use weaponry they were issued by the IDF.
# Anyone who surrenders cannot be attacked.
# Only those who are properly trained can interrogate prisoners.
# Soldiers must accord dignity and respect to the Palestinian population and those arrested.
# Soldiers must give appropriate medical care, when conditions allow, to themselves and to enemies.
# Pillaging is absolutely and totally illegal.
# Soldiers must show proper respect for religious and cultural sites and artifacts.
# Soldiers must protect international aid workers, including their property and vehicles.
# Soldiers must report all violations of this code.

==Command and Control==
According to the Israeli ''Basic Law: The IDF'' adopted in 1976, the IDF is subject to the authority of the Government. The Minister in charge of the IDF on behalf of the Government is the Minister of Defense. The supreme command level in the military, the Chief of the General Staff, the military's Commander in Chief, is appointed by and subject to the authority of the civilian Government and is subordinate to the Minister of Defense (not the Ministry of Defense itself).

However, in the years after the establishment of Israel, the Military establishment enjoyed a degree of independence given to it by Ben-Gurion. This was evident in the attendance of the Chief of General Staff in Cabinet and security Cabinet meetings as an equal and not as a subordinate. Even after the ] inquiry following the 1973 ], when the roles, the powers, and the duties of the Prime Minister, Defense Minister and Chief of General Staff were clarified and the rules and standards of monitoring where established between the military and the political spheres, the military still continued to enjoy an overlarge status on the expense of the civilian authority.

==Budget==
During 1950–66, Israel spent an average of 9% of its GDP on defense. Defense expenditures increased dramatically after both the 1967 and 1973 wars. They reached a high of about 24% of GDP in the 1980s, but have since come down significantly, following the signing of peace agreements with Jordan and Egypt.

On 30 September 2009 Defense Minister Ehud Barak, Finance Minister Yuval Steinitz and Prime Minister ] endorsed an additional NIS 1.5 billion for the defense budget to help Israel address problems regarding Iran. The budget changes came two months after Israel had approved its current two-year budget. The defense budget in 2009 stood at NIS 48.6 billion and NIS 53.2 billion for 2010 – the highest amount in Israel's history. The figure constituted 6.3% of expected gross domestic product and 15.1% of the overall budget, even before the planned NIS 1.5 billion addition.<ref name="haaretz.com">{{cite news |url=http://www.haaretz.com/print-edition/business/defense-budget-to-grow-education-spending-to-shrink-1.6974 |title=Defense budget to grow, education spending to shrink |work=Haaretz |location=Israel |author=Moti Bassok |date=30 September 2009 |accessdate=9 June 2010}}</ref>

However, in 2011, the prime minister ] reversed course and moved to make significant cuts in the defense budget in order to pay for social programs.<ref> UPI, 10 October 2011.</ref> The General Staff concluded that the proposed cuts endangered the battle readiness of the armed forces.<ref>Harel, Amos. ''Haaretz'', 11 October 2011.</ref> In 2012, Israel spent $15.2 billion on its armed forces, one of the highest ratios of defense spending to GDP among developed countries ($1,900 per person). However, Israel's spending per capita is below that of the USA.<ref>]</ref><!-- Misplaced Pages is not a reliable source -->

==Weapons and equipment==
{{Main|Military equipment of Israel|Defense industry of Israel}}
] ]]]
] ] INS ''Lahav'']]
] Mark 4m with ]]]

===Military technology===
The IDF possesses top-of-the-line weapons and computer systems. Some gear comes from the US (with some equipment modified for IDF use) such as the ] and ] ]s, the ] 7.62&nbsp;mm ] ], the ] 7.62&nbsp;mm semi-automatic sniper rifle, the ] and ] ], and the ] and ] ]s. Israel has also developed its own independent weapons industry, which has developed weapons and vehicles such as the ] battle tank series, ] and ] ], and various small arms such as the ] and ] ]s, and the ] ]. Israel has also installed a variant of the ], a remote controlled weapons platform, which can include machine guns, grenade launchers, and anti-tank missiles on a remotely operated turret, in ] along the ] intended to prevent ]s from entering its territory.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogscript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3A27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3A344244b3-3fee-4dfc-be03-992bf38a6f19 |title=Weaponized Sentry-Tech Towers Protecting Hot Borders |publisher=Aviationweek.com |date=4 December 2008 |accessdate=1 October 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.eurasiareview.com/201007134943/israels-new-video-game-executions.html |title=Israel's New 'Video Game' Executions |work=Eurasia Review |author=Palestine Chronicle |date=13 July 2010 |accessdate=8 August 2010}}</ref> Israel has developed observation ] equipped with sophisticated cameras and surveillance systems used to thwart terror attacks from Gaza.<ref>, Ynet News 5 May 2012</ref> The IDF also possesses advanced ] equipment which include the ] ], ] ], ] and ] minefield breaching rockets, and a variety of ]s and explosive devices.

The IDF also has several large internal ] departments, and it purchases many technologies produced by the Israeli security industries including ], ], ], ], and dozens of smaller firms. Many of these developments have been battle-tested in Israel's numerous military engagements, making the relationship mutually beneficial, the IDF getting tailor-made solutions and the industries a good reputation.{{Citation needed|date=September 2009}}

In response to the price overruns on the US ] program, Israel is considering producing their own ]s, which would take a decade<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.trcb.com/news/israel/general/israel-navy-mulls-building-larger-scale-missile-ships-locally-12305.htm |title=Israel Navy mulls building larger-scale missile ships locally |work=The Jerusalem Post |author=Yaakov Katz |date=1 July 2009 |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref> and depend on diverting US financing to the project.<ref>{{cite web |author=Yehudah Lev Kay |url=http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/132104 |title=Navy Drops US Warship for Made-in-Israel Option |publisher=IsraelNationalNews.com |date=29 June 2009 |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref>

===Main developments===
Israel's military technology is most famous for its firearms, ] (]s, tank-converted ]s (APCs), ]s, etc.), ]s, and rocketry (missiles and rockets). Israel also has manufactured aircraft including the ] (reserve), ] (canceled), and the ] ] ], and naval systems (patrol and missile ships). Much of the IDF's electronic systems (intelligence, communication, command and control, navigation etc.) are Israeli-developed, including many systems installed on foreign platforms (esp. aircraft, tanks and submarines), as are many of its ]s. Israel is the world's largest exporter of ]s.<ref> ''Haaretz'', Gili Cohen Published: 19 May 2013, 16:32</ref>

] (IMI) is known for its firearms. The ], the ], the ] light machine gun and the new ] Bullpup assault rifle are used by the IDF.

Israel is the only country in the world with an operational anti-ballistic missile defense system on the national level – the ] system, jointly funded and produced by Israel and the United States. The ] system against short-range ]s is operational and proved to be successful. ], an anti-missile system designed to counter ]s is under development. Israel has also worked with the US on development of a tactical high energy ] system against medium range rockets (called Nautilus or ]).

Israel has the independent capability of launching ] into orbit, a capability shared with Russia, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, South Korea, Italy, Germany, the People's Republic of China, India, Japan, Brazil and Ukraine. Israeli security industries developed both the satellites (]) and the launchers (]).

Israel is known to have developed ].<ref name="fas-nuke">{{cite web |url=https://fas.org/nuke/guide/israel/nuke/ |title=Nuclear Weapons – Israel |publisher=Federation of American Scientists |accessdate=22 September 2010}}</ref> Israel ] its nuclear weapons program. It is thought Israel possesses between one hundred and four hundred nuclear warheads.<ref name="fas-nuke"/><ref>Brower, Kenneth S., "A Propensity for Conflict: Potential Scenarios and Outcomes of War in the Middle East," ], Special Report no. 14, (February 1997), 14–15. Brower notes that he is making a high estimate of the number of weapons.</ref> It is believed that ] are capable of delivering nuclear warheads with a superior degree of accuracy and a range of 11,500&nbsp;km.<ref name="cns.miis.edu">. (PDF). Retrieved 4 June 2011.</ref> Israeli ] and ] fighter-bomber aircraft also have been cited as possible nuclear delivery systems.<ref>. Cdi.org. Retrieved 4 June 2011.</ref><ref>. English.peopledaily.com.cn (20 August 2002). Retrieved 4 June 2011.</ref><ref name=OTA-ISC-559>{{Cite book|url=http://www.princeton.edu/~ota/disk1/1993/9341/9341.PDF|title=Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction: Assessing the Risks|publisher=] ]|date=August 1993|id=OTA-ISC-559|accessdate=9 December 2008}}</ref> The ] ] has tactical nuclear weapon capability.<ref>{{Cite book|url=http://thebulletin.metapress.com/content/82558p4j65585158/fulltext.pdf|title=U.S. nuclear weapons in Europe, 1954–2004|author=Robert S. Norris and Hans M. Kristensen|date=November–December 2004|publisher=Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists|accessdate=11 June 2009}}</ref> It has been asserted that ]s have been adapted to carry ] ]s with nuclear warheads, so as to give Israel a ] capacity.<ref>{{cite web|last=Plushnick |first=Ramit |url=http://www.boston.com/news/world/middleeast/articles/2006/08/25/israel_buys_2_nuclear_capable_submarines_from_germany/ |title=Israel buys 2 nuclear-capable submarines from Germany |work=The Boston Globe |date=25 August 2006 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=J’lem and Berlin sign contract for sixth submarine|newspaper=Jerusalem Post|date=5 February 2012|url=http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=256494}}</ref>

From 2006 Israel deployed the ] ] for use in ] and to protect ]s.

<center>
<gallery>
File:MerkavaMk4 ZE001m.jpg|] ]
File:סער 4.5.JPG|]
File:Elbit Hermes 900s.JPG|] ]
File:Tavor-latrun-exhibition-1.jpg|] ]
File:SPIKE ATGM.jpg|] ]
File:Arrow anti-ballistic missile launch.jpg|] ]
File:Zeev-jeep002.jpg|]
File:Flickr - Israel Defense Forces - Israeli Made Guardium UGV (1).jpg|] ]
File:Cannon fire - M109 self-propelled howitzer.jpg|]
File:IDF-D9-Zachi-Evenor-001.jpg|] ]
File:Israeli F-16s at Red Flag.jpg|IAF ] "Sufa" multirole ] ]
File:MLRS-IDF002.jpg|] "Menatetz"
File:Iron Dome near Sderot.jpg|] anti-rocket system launcher
File:Typhoon25mm001.jpg|] armed with ]
File:PumaAPC01.jpg|] ]
File:IDF-Namer003.jpg|] heavy armored personnel carrier
File:Ah-64d.jpg|] ]
File:Achzarit.jpg|] ]
File:IMI-Negev006a.jpg|] ]
File:Merkava-mkII-pic0018.jpg|Merkava Mk II with mine rolers
File:IAIScout.jpg|IDF/AF ] drones
File:IMI120shells.jpg|IMI 120&nbsp;mm tank shells
File:M2-Catlanit002.jpg|] on ]
File:I.n.s. dolfin-03.JPG|INS ]
</gallery>
</center>

==Commemoration==

===Commemoration===
{{See also|Yom Hazikaron}}
]
]

], Israel's day of remembrance for fallen soldiers, is observed on the 4th day of the month of ] of the ], the day before the celebration of ]. Memorial services are held in the presence of Israel's top military personnel. A two-minute siren is heard at 11:00, which marks the opening of the official military memorial ceremonies and private remembrance gatherings at each cemetery where soldiers are buried. Many Israelis visit the graves of family members and friends who were killed in action. On the evening before the remembrance day all shops, restaurants and entertainment places must close gates to the public no later than 7 P.M. (the same routine and law applies to the day of remembrance of the Holocaust which takes place a week earlier).

The main museum for Israel's armored corps is the ] in ], which houses one of the largest tank museums in the world. Other significant military museums are the ] (Batei Ha-Osef) in ], the ], and the Beit HaTotchan of artillery in ]. The ] is located at ] in the ], and the Israeli Clandestine Immigration and Naval Museum, is in ].

Israel's National Military Cemetery is at ]. Other Israeli military cemeteries include ] in Tel Aviv, and Sgula military cemetery at ].

===Parades===
{{See also|Yom Ha'atzmaut|Israel Defense Forces parade}}
Israel Defense Forces parades took place on Independence Day, during the first 25 years of the State of Israel's existence. They were cancelled after 1973 due to financial and security concerns. The Israel Defense Forces still has weapon exhibitions country-wide on Independence Day, but they are stationary.

==Foreign military relations==

===France===
Starting on the Independence day on 14 May 1948 (5 Iyar 5708), a strong military, commercial and political relationship were established between France and Israel until 1969. The highest level of the military collaboration was reached between 1956 and 1966.<ref>{{cite book |title=The Bomb in the Basement: How Israel Went Nuclear and What That Means for the World |last1=Karpin |first1=Michael |publisher=Simon & Schuster |date=2007 |isbn=978-0-7432-6595-9}}</ref> At this time France provided almost all the aircraft, tanks and military ships. In 1969 the French president ] limited the export of weapons to Israel. This was the end of the "golden age" 20 years of relations between Israel and France.

===United States===
{{Main|Israel – United States military relations}}
] (left), Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff]]
] on the ]]]

In 1983, the United States and Israel established a ], which convenes twice a year. Both the U.S. and Israel participate in joint military planning and combined exercises, and have collaborated on military research and weapons development. Additionally the ] maintains two classified, pre-positioned ]s in Israel valued at $493 million.<ref name="globalsecurity">{{cite web |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/agency//31muns.htm| title=31st Munitions Squadron (31st MUNS) |publisher=GlobalSecurity.org |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref> Israel has the official distinction of being an American ]. As a result of this, the US and Israel share the vast majority{{Citation needed|date=January 2010}} of their security and military technology.

Since 1976, Israel had been the largest annual recipient of U.S. foreign assistance. In 2009, Israel received $2.55 billion in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) grants from the Department of Defense.<ref name="fas2006-10"/> All but 26% of this military aid is for the purchase of military hardware from American companies only.<ref name="fas2006-10">{{cite web |first=Jeremy M. |last= Sharp |title=CRS report for Congress: U.S. foreign aid to Israel |publisher=] |date=4 December 2009 |accessdate=8 June 2010 |url=https://fas.org/sgp/crs/mideast/RL33222.pdf |format=PDF}}</ref>

The United States has an anti-missile system base in the ] region of Southern Israel, which is manned by 120 US Army personnel.{{Citation needed|date=October 2011}}

In October 2012, United States and Israel began their biggest joint air and missile defense exercise, known as ], involving around 3,500 U.S. troops in the region along with 1,000 IDF personnel.<ref>, Al Jazeera 21 October 2012</ref> Germany and Britain also participated.<ref>{{cite web|last=Capaccio |first=Tony |url=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-10-15/u-dot-s-dot-israeli-military-exercise-sending-message-to-iran |title=U.S.-Israeli Military Exercise Sending Message to Iran |work=BusinessWeek |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

===India===
{{Further|India–Israel relations}}
India and Israel enjoy strong military and strategic ties.<ref>{{cite web|author=Riedel, Bruce |url=http://www.brookings.edu/opinions/2008/0321_india_riedel.aspx |title=Israel & India: New Allies |publisher=Brookings.edu |date=21 March 2008 |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> Israeli authorities consider Indian citizens to be the most pro-Israel people in the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ynet.co.il/english/articles/0,7340,L-3696887,00.html |title=ynet article |publisher=ynet article |date=20 June 1995 |accessdate=1 October 2010}}</ref><ref>.</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Daniel Pipes |url=http://www.danielpipes.org/blog/2009/04/india-the-most-pro-israel-country |title=daniel pipes article |publisher=daniel pipes article |accessdate=1 October 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=140suffolk |url=http://digg.com/world_news/India_the_Most_Pro_Israel_Country |title=digg article |publisher=digg article |date=21 April 2009 |accessdate=1 October 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://dover.idf.il/NR/exeres/D9D64F57-94C0-44F3-AE59-6A9C3E2E49BA.htm |title=A Little Piece of New Delhi in Haifa |publisher=Dover.idf.il |accessdate=1 October 2010}}</ref><ref name="JINSA01">{{Wayback |date=20061107084915 |url=http://www.jinsa.org/articles/articles.html/function/view/categoryid/1948/documentid/1971/history/3,2360,1947,1948,1971 |title=India and Israel Forge a Solid Strategic Alliance}} by Martin Sherman, The Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs</ref> Apart from being Israel's second-largest economic partner in Asia,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.ficci.com/international/countries/israel/israel-commercialrelations.htm |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070103015020/http://www.ficci.com/international/countries/israel/israel-commercialrelations.htm |archivedate=3 January 2007 |title=India-Israel Economic and Commercial Relations |publisher=Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry |accessdate=9 June 2010}}</ref> India is also the largest customer of Israeli arms in the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/02/16/stories/2009021658931100.htm |title=Israel largest defence supplier to India: report |work=The Hindu |date=16 February 2009 |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> In 2006, annual military sales between India and Israel stood at US$900 million.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3310835,00.html |title=Israel arms sales to India top USD 900 million a year |publisher=Yedioth Internet |date=4 October 2006 |accessdate=9 June 2010}}</ref> Israeli defense firms had the largest exhibition at the 2009 ] show, during which Israel offered several state-of-the art weapons to India.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/osd_story.php?i=3944502 |title=Israeli Exhibit Among Largest at Show |publisher=Defensenews.com |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> The first major military deal between the two countries was the sale of Israeli ] ] radars to the ] in 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://in.rediff.com/news/2004/mar/05phal.htm |title=India, Israel ink the Phalcon deal |publisher=In.rediff.com |date=6 March 2004 |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> In March 2009, India and Israel signed a US$1.4 billion deal under which Israel would sell India an advanced air-defense system.<ref>{{cite web|author=PTI Date: 27 March 2009 Place: Jerusalem |url=http://www.mid-day.com/news/2009/mar/270309-India-Israel-sign-deal-on-air-defence-system.htm |title=India, Israel sign $1.4 bn deal on air defence system |publisher=Mid-day.com |date=27 March 2009 |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> India and Israel have also embarked on extensive space cooperation. In 2008, India's ] launched Israel's most technologically advanced ] ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Koshy |first=Ninan |url=http://www.fpif.org/fpiftxt/4959 |title=India and Israel Eye Iran |publisher=Fpif.org |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> In 2009, India reportedly developed a high-tech spy satellite ] with significant assistance from Israel.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/03/21/india.satellite/index.html?iref=mpstoryview |title=India to launch Israel-backed satellite |publisher=CNN |date=21 March 2009 |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> The satellite was successfully launched by India in April 2009.<ref>{{cite web |author=IANS |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/ISRO-launches-spy-satellite-RISAT-2/articleshow/4422951.cms |title=Spy satellite RISAT takes off from Sriharikota |work=The Times of India |date=20 April 2009 |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref>

According to a Los Angeles Times news story the ] were an attack on the growing India-Israel partnership. It quotes retired Indian Vice Admiral Premvir S. Das thus "Their aim was to... tell the Indians clearly that your growing linkage with Israel is not what you should be doing..."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-india-israel1-2009feb01,0,4924558.story |title=Some see Mumbai terrorism as an attack on India–Israel ties |work=Los Angeles Times |date=1 February 2009 |accessdate=1 June 2010 | first=Peter |last=Spiegel}}</ref> In the past, India and Israel have held numerous joint anti-terror training exercises<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/india-israel-likely-to-hold-joint-antiterror-training-exercises/360288/ |title=India, Israel likely to hold joint anti-terror training exercises |work=The Indian Express |date=12 September 2008}}</ref> and it was also reported that in the wake of the Mumbai attacks, Israel was helping India launch anti-terror raids inside ]i territory.

===Germany===
]]]
{{Further|Germany–Israel relations}}
Germany developed the ] and supplied it to Israel. Two submarines were donated by Germany.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/germany-may-sell-2-more-dolphin-subs-to-israel-for-117b-01528/ |title=Defense Industry Daily |publisher=Defense Industry Daily |date=15 July 2013 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> The military co-operation has been discreet but mutually profitable: ], for example, sent captured ] armour to West Germany to be analysed. The results aided the German development of an ].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/middle_east/article3564572.ece |title=Israel welcomes new Germany to a celebration of its 60th birthday |work=The Times |author=Roger Boyes |date=17 March 2008 |accessdate=9 June 2010 | location=London}}</ref> Israel also trained members of ], a German counter-terrorism and special operations unit.<ref>http://www.bundespolizei.de/DE/06Die-Bundespolizei/Organisation/BPOLP/GSG9/Berichte/40-jahre-gsg9.html</ref> The Israeli ] tank uses a German ] produced under license.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Armour-and-Artillery-Upgrades/Israel-Military-Industries-120-mm-smoothbore-tank-gun-MG251-Israel.html |title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's &#124; IHS |publisher=Articles.janes.com |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

In 2008, the website DefenseNews revealed that Germany and Israel had been jointly developing a nuclear warning system, dubbed Operation Bluebird.<ref name='israel_germany_nukes1'>{{cite news |last=Defense News Staff |title=Israel Seeks Missile-Sensing UAV |date=3 November 2008 |publisher=DefenseNews.com |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=3800042 |work=Defense News |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref><ref name='israel_germany_nukes2'>{{cite news | first=Yaakov |last=Lappin |title=Israel, Germany develop nuclear warning system |date=17 November 2008 |url=http://www.jpost.com/Home/Article.aspx?id=120776 |publisher=The Jerusalem Post |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref>
]]]

===United Kingdom===
{{Further|Israel – United Kingdom relations}}
During a secret operation in 1966, two British made "Chieftain" MBTs were brought to Israel for a 4 years long evaluation for service with the IDF. The plan was for the IDF not only to purchase the British MBTs, but for IMI (Israeli Military Industries) to buy production rights. As part of the deal during the early 60's Israel purchased second hand "Centurion" MBTs from the British, that used that money in the "Chieftain" development. After the trials were done Israeli improvement and ideas were implemented by the British manufacturer, but British politicians cancelled the agreement with Israel and the program was shut down. The knowledge earned during the improvements on the "Chieftain", together with earlier experiments in tank improvements, gave the last push for the development and production of the "Merkava" tank.

United Kingdom has supplied equipment and spare parts for ]s and ] fighter-bombers, components for small-caliber artillery ammunition and air-to-surface missiles, and engines for ] ]s. British arms sales to Israel mainly consist of light weaponry, and ammunition and components for helicopters, tanks, armored personnel carriers, and combat aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.haaretz.com/print-edition/news/report-britain-places-embargo-on-arms-sales-to-israel-1.47870 |title=Report: Britain places embargo on arms sales to Israel |work=Haaretz |location=Israel |date=13 April 2002 |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=British MPs slam weapons exports to Israel|newspaper=ynetnews|date=30 March 2010|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3869789,00.html}}</ref>

===China===
{{Further|People's Republic of China – Israel relations}}
Israel is the second-largest foreign supplier of arms to the People's Republic of China, only after the ]. China has purchased a wide array of military hardware from Israel, including ]s and ]s. China has become an extensive market for Israel's military industries and arms manufacturers, and trade with Israel has allowed it to obtain "dual-use" technology which the United States and ] were reluctant to provide.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/FL21Ak01.html |title=US up in arms over Sino-Israel ties |publisher=Asia Times Online |author=Sudha Ramachandran |date=21 December 2004 |accessdate=10 June 2010}}</ref> In 2010 ], head of ] visited China to strengthen military ties.<ref>{{cite web|last=Katz |first=Yaakov |url=http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?id=179117 |title=IDF strengthening ties with Chinese military |work=Jerusalem Post |date=22 June 2010 |accessdate=4 July 2010}}</ref> In 2012, ] ] visited China for high-level talks with the Chinese defense establishment.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.jpost.com/Features/FrontLines/Article.aspx?id=276460 |title=Security and Defense: The Chinese connection |publisher=Jerusalem Post |author=Yaakov Katz |date=5 July 2012}}</ref>

===Cyprus===
{{Further|Cyprus-Israel relations}}
As closely neighboring countries, Israel and Cyprus have enjoyed greatly improving diplomatic relations since 2010. During the ], Cyprus dispatched two aviation assets to assist fire-fighting operations in Israel – the first time Cypriot Government aircraft were permitted to operate from Israeli airfields in a non-civil capacity.<ref>^ "Cyprus helps aid teams at huge forest fire". Famagusta-gazette.com. 2009-07-15. Retrieved 16 January 2012.</ref> In addition, Israel and Cyprus have closely cooperated in maritime activities relating to Gaza, since 2010, and have reportedly begun an extensive sharing program of regional intelligence to support mutual security concerns. On 17 May 2012, it was widely reported that the Israeli Air Force had been granted unrestricted access to the Nicosia Flight Information Region of Cyprus, and that Israeli aviation assets may have operated over the island itself.<ref>{{cite web|last=Shamah |first=David |url=http://www.timesofisrael.com/israeli-plane-violates-turkish-cypriot-airspace/ |title=Turkey claims it chased Israeli jet out of Northern Cyprus |publisher=The Times of Israel |date=17 May 2012 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> Cyprus, as a former ] air-defense system operator, was speculated by Greek media to have assisted Israel in strategic planning to challenge such air-defense systems, alongside shorter-range ] systems, although this remains unconfirmed.

===Greece===
{{Further|Greece-Israel relations}}
] and one ], fly above Greek mountains during a joint exercise with the Hellenic Air Force, June 2011]]
Israel and Greece have enjoyed a very cordial military relationship since 2008, including military drills ranging from Israel to the island of Crete. Drills include air-to-air long-distance refueling, long-range flights, and most importantly aiding Israel in outmaneuvering the ] which Greece has.<ref>{{cite news|title=Israel goes all-out to stop S-300 sale to Iran|newspaper=PressTV|url=http://edition.presstv.ir/detail.fa/78623.html}}</ref> Recent purchases include 100 million euro deal between Greece and Israel for the purchase of ] 1000 and SPICE 2000 pound bomb kits. They have also signed many defense agreements, including Cyprus, in order to establish stability for transporting gas from Israel-Cyprus to Greece and on to the European Union-a paramount objective to the future stability and prosperity of all three countries, threatened by Turkey.

===Turkey===
{{Further|Israel–Turkey relations}}
Israel has provided extensive military assistance to Turkey. Israel sold Turkey ] ]s, and modernized Turkey's ] and ] aircraft at the cost of $900 million. Turkey's ] is the Israeli-made ] tank, of which Turkey has 170. Israel later upgraded them for $500 million. Israel has also supplied Turkey with Israeli-made missiles, and the two nations have engaged in naval cooperation. Turkey allowed Israeli pilots to practice long-range flying over mountainous terrain in Turkey's Konya firing range, while Israel trains Turkish pilots at Israel's computerized firing range at ].<ref>Nechmani, 1988, p. 24.</ref><ref>Pipes, 1997, p. 34.</ref> Until 2009, the Turkish military was one of Israel's largest defense customers. Israel defense companies have sold unmanned aerial vehicles and long-range targeting pods.<ref>{{cite web|last=Katz |first=Yaakov |url=http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=235160 |title=Despite strained ties, IDF attache welcomed in Turkey |work=The Jerusalem Post |date=24 August 2011 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

However, relations have been strained in recent times. In the last two years, the Turkish military has declined to participate in the annual joint naval exercise with Israel and the United States. The exercise, known as "Reliant Mermaid" was started in 1998 and included the Israeli, Turkish and American navies.<ref>{{cite web|author=John Pike |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/ops/reliant-mermaid.htm |title=Reliant Mermaid |publisher=Globalsecurity.org |date=7 January 1998 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> The objective of the exercise is to practice search-and-rescue operations and to familiarize each navy with international partners who also operate in the ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Katz |first=Yaakov |url=http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=232401 |title=Turkey absent again from naval drills with Israel, US |work=The Jerusalem Post |date=9 July 2013 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

===Azerbaijan===
{{Further|Azerbaijan–Israel relations}}
Azerbaijan and Israel have engaged in intense cooperation since 1992.<ref>{{cite web|author=|url=http://www.news.az/articles/politics/30558 |title=interview with Norma Zager |publisher=News.az |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> Israeli military have been a major provider of battlefield aviation, artillery, antitank, and anti-infantry weaponry to Azerbaijan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/templateC05.php?CID=2287 |title=Good Relations between Azerbaijan and Israel: A Model for Other Muslim States in Eurasia? |publisher=Washingtoninstitute.org |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref><ref>Jane's Defense Weekly, 16 October 1996</ref> In 2009, Israeli President ] made a visit to Azerbaijan where military relations were expanded further, with the Israeli company ] announcing it was going to build a factory in ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Aeronautics to build plant in Azerbaijan |author=Ora Coren |url=http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1096354.html |newspaper=Haaretz |date=29 June 2009 |accessdate=5 March 2012}}</ref> In 2012, Israel and Azerbaijan signed an agreement according to which state-run ] would sell $1.6 billion in drones and anti-aircraft and missile defense systems to Azerbaijan.<ref>. ''The Washington Post''. 26 February 2012.</ref> In March 2012, the magazine '']'' reported that the ] may be preparing to use the ], located {{convert|500|km|mi|abbr=on}} from the Iranian border, for air strikes against the ],<ref name="FP 2012">{{cite news|last=Perry|first=mark|title=Israel's Secret Staging Ground|url=http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/03/28/israel_s_secret_staging_ground?page=full|accessdate=29 March 2012|newspaper=]|date=28 March 2012}}</ref> later backed up by other media.<ref>{{cite news|title=Azerbaijan eyes aiding Israel against Iran |author=Thomas Grove |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/30/us-iran-israel-azerbaijan-idUSBRE88T05L20120930 |publisher=Reuters |date=30 September 2012}}</ref>

===Other countries===
Israel has also sold or received supplies of military equipment from the ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ],<ref name=amnesty>{{cite web|url=http://www.amnesty.org/en/news-and-updates/news/arms-embargo-vital-gaza-civilian-toll-mounts-20090115 |title=Arms embargo vital as Gaza civilian toll mounts |publisher=Amnesty.org |date=15 January 2009 |accessdate=1 June 2010}}</ref> ],<ref>. Stratfor. 5 August 2008.</ref><ref>. Russia Today. 5 August 2008.</ref> ] and ],<ref>, IDF Spokesperson's Unit 25 October 2010</ref> among others.

==Future==
{{See also|Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Israeli procurement}}
The IDF is planning a number of technological upgrades for the future. As part of its plans, the M-16 rifle is currently being phased out of all ground units in favor of the IMI Tavor.<ref>Jerusalem Post: ''IDF phasing out M-16 in favor of Israeli-made Tavor'' (19 December 2012)</ref> In addition, the IDF is now planning for a future tank to replace the Merkava. The new tank will be able to fire lasers and electromagnetic pulses, run on a hybrid engine, run with a crew as small as two, will be faster, and will be better-protected, with emphasis on protection systems such as the Trophy over armor.<ref>Jerusalem Post: ''The IDF's future tank: Electromagnetic cannon''</ref>

The ] will purchase as many as 100 ] fighter jets from the United States. The aircraft will be modified and designated F-35I. They will use Israeli-built electronic warfare systems, outer-wings, guided bombs, and air-to-air missiles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-awarded-207-million-contract-to-incorporate-israeli-specific-f-35-systems-375899/ |title=Lockheed awarded $207 million contract to incorporate Israeli-specific F-35 systems |publisher=Flightglobal.com |date=29 August 2012 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref><ref> {{wayback|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/awst/2010/08/23/AW_08_23_2010_p32-249396.xml |date=20150701011556 |df=y }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/158594#.UTPFZzCG0j4 |title=Panetta’s Visit Sealed F-35 Jet Sale to Israel |publisher=Israel National News |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

As part of a 2013 arms deal, the IAF will purchase ] aerial refueling aircraft and ] multi-mission aircraft from the United States, as well as advanced radars for warplanes and missiles designed to take out radars.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4369684,00.html |title=Israel to buy new missiles, refueling planes from US |publisher=Ynetnews.com |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

In April 2013, an Israeli official stated that within 40–50 years, piloted aircraft would be phased out of service by ] capable of executing nearly any operation that can be performed by piloted combat aircraft. Israel's military industries are reportedly on the path to developing such technology in a few decades. Israel will also manufacture tactical satellites for military use.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4370514,00.html |title=Israel says drones to eventually replace manned aircraft |publisher=Ynetnews.com |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

The ] is expecting the delivery of a fifth ] in 2013,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nrg.co.il/online/1/ART2/317/269.html?hp=1&cat=875 |title=חדשות - צבא וביטחון nrg - ...בחיל הים שקלו לקרוא לצוללת |publisher=Nrg.co.il |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> and a sixth in 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4373908,00.html |title=Israel gets 5th German submarine - Israel News, Ynetnews |publisher=Ynetnews.com |date= |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> Israel is planning to upgrade its surface fleet, and is jointly developing four frigates based on the ] with South Korea. In addition, Israel may procure destroyers and cruisers equipped with cruise missiles with a range of some 2,000 kilometers. Israel is also developing marine artillery, including a gun capable of firing satellite-guided 155mm rounds between 75 and 120 kilometers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://gantdaily.com/2012/04/02/israel-navy-mulling-purchasing-south-korean-ships-built-by-hyundai/ |title=Israel Navy Mulling Purchasing South Korean Ships built by Hyundai |publisher=GantDaily.com |date=2 April 2012 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.presstv.com/detail/2012/11/03/270170/israel-mulls-buying-s-korean-warships/ |title=Israel mulls purchasing 4 South Korean warships |publisher=PressTV |date=3 November 2012 |accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref>

==See also==
{{portal|Israel|War}}
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==References and footnotes==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==Further reading==
* {{Cite book|author=Rosenthal, Donna|title=The Israelis|publisher=Free Press|year=2003|isbn=978-0-7432-7035-9}}
* {{Cite book|title=An Army is Born|author=Ostfeld, Zehava|year=1994|publisher=Israel Ministry of Defense|isbn=978-965-05-0695-7|editor=Shiftel, Shoshana|language=he}}
* {{Cite book|title=Nucleus for a Standing Army|author=Gelber, Yoav|authorlink=Yoav Gelber|year=1986|publisher=Yad Ben Tzvi|language=he}}
* {{Cite book|title=IDF in Its Corps: Army and Security Encyclopedia (18 volumes)|editor=Yehuda Shif|publisher=Revivim Publishing|year=1982|language=he}}
* {{Cite book|title=The Nature of War: Conflicting Paradigms and Israeli Military Effectiveness|editor=Ron Tira|publisher=Sussex Academic Press|year=2009|isbn=978-1-84519-378-2}}
* Roislien, Hanne Eggen (2013). ] 39, No. 3, pp.&nbsp;213–232.
* Country Briefing: Israel, ], 19 June 1996

==External links==
{{Sister project links |wikt=IDF |commons=Category:Israel Defense Forces |b=no |n=no |q=no |s=no |v=no |species=no}}
* {{Official website|http://www.idfblog.com/ }}
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* Moshe Yaalon,
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* – The Israeli Special Forces Database
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* Shapell Manuscript Foundation
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* {{YouTube|NX6vyT8RzMo|UNwatch, Goldstone Gaza Report: Col. Richard Kemp Testifies at U.N. Emergency Session}}

{{Israel Defense Forces}}
{{Military of Asia}}
{{Israel topics}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2012}}

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Revision as of 18:08, 12 December 2015