Tank battalion complete war drill on Golan Heights

Nahal Brigade practice sudden mobilization, conquering villages.

By YAAKOV LAPPIN
IDF tanks along the Syrian border on Golan Heights 370 (R) (photo credit: IDF Spokesman Unit)
IDF tanks along the Syrian border on Golan Heights 370 (R)
(photo credit: IDF Spokesman Unit)
A tank battalion from the IDF’s 401st Armored Brigade completed an extensive war drill on the Golan Heights on Wednesday.
The 9th Eshet Battalion, made up of Israel’s most advanced tank, the Merkava Mark 4, practiced combat situations involving potential northern fronts, as well as dealing with multiple casualties.
Lt. Dudi Segel, the 401st Armored Brigade’s medical officer, told The Jerusalem Post how doctors and medics attached to the battalion practiced how to provide first aid to wounded tank crew members within minutes of their injuries, and then evacuating them from the battlefield to hospitals via helicopter airlifts, other tanks, and armored vehicles.
“When we analyze past battles, we see that the way to save the wounded from death is to bring medical treatment forward, to the front line, and that is what we are investing resources and money in doing.
A speedy evacuation is the second key component,” Segel said.
To that end, every tank battalion has fixed doctors and medics attached to it. Tank crew members also go through a first aid course, and are equipped with lifesaving medical kits.
“The doctors and medics are in the firing line, with the forces. We can’t afford to reach the wounded long after their injuries,” Segel added.
The IDF’s Nahal infantry brigade also recently completed a major war drill on the Golan Heights, simulating a surprise development. All Nahal Brigade soldiers were suddenly mobilized to the Golan on Saturday evening, to test their readiness and ability to join a battle quickly.
“We are on the highest alert now to carry out any mission,” Lt.-Col. Oshik Azulai, commander of Nahal’s 932nd “Granite” Brigade said.
The soldiers practiced conquering villages and assault maneuvers together with tanks. Artillery forces and the Engineering Corps trained in how to support their advance.
Attacking underground bunkers and tunnels was also included in the training.
Segel said tanks from his brigade often work with the Nahal Brigade to prepare for war. “We cooperate closely. It’s a very important dialogue,” he said.