The IDF is known for its sophisticated and advanced technology. In the past year
alone, the military deployed the Iron Dome counter-rocket defense system to
intercept Katyusha rockets launched from the Gaza Strip and the Trophy active
protection system that can intercept anti-tank missiles fired at Merkava
tanks.
In recent months though, the IDF has decided to install a new
defensive system – trees.
RELATED:IDF preparing for major Gaza action within months“The idea is simple,” a senior officer from the
IDF’s Gaza Division explained. “Trees are planted around Israeli towns and
communities that are close to the border, making it more difficult for
terrorists to accurately target homes and residents.”
The project was
launched several months ago in conjunction with Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL) –
Jewish National Fund, which has been planting eucalyptus trees 16 kilometers
outside communities located along the border with the Gaza Strip.
The IDF
is concerned Palestinian terrorists will try to target residents of the
communities with sniper fire or by launching anti-tank missiles at the
homes.
In April, for example,
Hamas fired an anti-tank missile at a
school bus, killing 16-year-old Daniel Viflic and just moments after it dropped
off a group of schoolchildren.
KKL said the eucalyptus was chosen since
the trees reach heights of about eight meters, high enough to protect borderline
communities. Next month, KKL plans to plant additional trees along main roads
near the border in conjunction with the holiday of Tu Bishvat, marking the
beginning of the new year for trees.