Following the implementation of the ceasefire along the Lebanon border this morning, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is intensifying discussions regarding a new security doctrine for border protection, which will likely require the procurement of new weapons systems and a completely different operational defense concept.
The existing border defense strategy proved inadequate during the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks in the Gaza Strip, and similar vulnerabilities were exposed along the Lebanon border. Israel Hayom learned one of the options being considered by the defense establishment is the acquisition of an armed aerial platform for border defense that can rapidly respond to threats and operate in close coordination with ground forces.
Due to operational strain and wear, defense officials believe the current aerial platforms are insufficient for the required border defense mission and cannot provide an optimal response. As a result, Israel is examining several options, including the Air Tractor aircraft, Efroni, and attack drones. However, the primary platform under consideration is the Black Hawk helicopter, manufactured by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, which can be equipped with armaments.
The US Special Forces have operated an armed version of the Black Hawk since 1991, first deployed during the Gulf War. The advantage of an armed Black Hawk is that it already exists in the Israeli Air Force (IAF) as the Yanshuf, though currently used mainly for assault transport, evacuation, and rescue missions. Since the helicopter is already operational in the IAF, acquiring an armed version would require minimal resources for pilot training and maintenance, especially given the availability of spare parts. The helicopter could serve both assault missions and armed border defense operations.
Over the years, reports indicated that the IAF has considered an armed version of the helicopter. In the past, Elbit Systems successfully conducted trials installing armaments on the Black Hawk, though the concept was not implemented in Israel. Currently, Israel is examining several options for rapid border defense and dealing with infiltration events.
The Black Hawk remains the leading option, and Israel may seek to purchase used helicopters of this type, depending on budget considerations. If a Black Hawk purchase is approved, new platforms could have weapon systems installed at US factories, subject to American government approval. For used helicopters, either Elbit Systems could install the weapon systems, or Lockheed Martin might be tasked with the modification. However, the entire matter remains under review.
