IDF launches massive Ground Forces exercise

Making a successful appearance was the Siman 4 Merkava tank, which came quipped with a new anti-missile defense system.

By YAAKOV LAPPIN
Published: OCTOBER 13, 2010 04:34
Merkava tank anti missile 311 (photo credit: Associated Press)
Merkava tank anti missile 311
(photo credit: Associated Press)
The IDF “will have to act swiftly and with full force” in any future conflict, IDF Chief of General Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi said on Tuesday following the completion of an annual Ground Forces display in the South.
“This is the significant and important challenged [needed] for victory,” he added.
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The live fire exercise, which was attended by army brass, including Ground Forces commander Maj.-Gen. Shlomi “Sami” Turjeman, saw the Armored Corps, Infantry, Gunners and Engineering Corps coordinate land maneuver and simulate battle techniques at the Shizafon base, north of Eilat.
Making its first military drill appearance was the Siman 4 Merkava tank, which comes quipped with a new anti-missile defense system called “Wind Jacket.” A missile was fired and intercepted by the tank during the drill.
The military forces drilled urban combat, bursting through complex hurdles, using artillery support and conquering enemy locations, with the assistance of the air force.
The display kicked off the start of a 10-day joint combat course.