IDF: Each observer will get her own gun (and 15,000 new drones) 

The IDF has unveiled an ambitious expansion plan for its ground forces, including the acquisition of 15,000 new drones and mandatory personal weapons for all female surveillance operators.

In response to lessons learned from the October 7 attacks, the IDF is implementing comprehensive changes to protect female surveillance operators. These include distributing personal weapons to all female surveillance operators and command center commanders, relocating surveillance command centers further from border areas, and enhancing fortification of observation posts. The military is also improving logistical support with upgraded food facilities, renovated living quarters, and fitness equipment.

During the ongoing war, the IDF's Ground Forces Command has been implementing significant force-building processes to create a larger, better-equipped, and more prepared ground force. The expansion includes converting additional infantry brigades to operate with advanced armored personnel carriers and strengthening engineering capabilities, including expanding the elite Yahalom unit and establishing a new regular engineering battalion.

The IDF is also launching several pilot programs for female combat integration, starting with infantry mobility units last month. By July 2025, the military will evaluate women's integration into the Yahalom special operations engineering unit, followed by a pilot program for armored maneuvering forces beginning in November 2025.

The reserve force has seen substantial growth during the war, with over 22,000 new reserve combat soldiers recruited, 81 new reserve battalion commanders appointed, and 162 reserve combat officers trained.

Military officials emphasize that these expansions require extending mandatory service to 36 months. They warn that without this extension, they won't be able to maintain the larger force needed to meet future challenges across all fronts. The broader officer training programs for both regular and reserve forces are also being implemented to maintain combat leadership capabilities in the ground forces.