Israeli commandos annihilate missile factory in Syria in record time
- In September 2023, Israel sent over 100 commandos to execute a raid on an Iranian missile production facility in Syria, codenamed Deep Layer.
- The operation lasted about 20 minutes, and commandos successfully planted explosives to destroy the facility without suffering any casualties.
- The mission exemplifies Israel's ongoing strategy to counter threats from Iran and its proxies, highlighting the IDF's operational capabilities.
In September 2023, Israel conducted a covert operation to eliminate a missile production facility located underground in Syria, which was believed to be a flagship project backed by Iran to arm Hezbollah. The facility, named 'Deep Layer,' was situated between 230 and 430 feet deep in the mountains near the Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Center. This operation was critical, as the facility was close to starting full-time production of weapons for Hezbollah at a time when tensions in the region were escalating. Planning for this operation, codenamed 'Operation Many Ways,' began as early as 2017, underscoring the complexity and importance of the mission. Over 100 Israeli commandos from the Air Force's elite Shaldag unit were involved, with additional support from 20 search-and-rescue soldiers prepared to provide medical assistance if necessary. The operational execution was rapid, lasting about 20 minutes, during which the commandos successfully planted explosives on critical machinery necessary for the production of missiles, and then safely exfiltrated via helicopter. The attack commenced with airstrikes that caused guards at the facility to retreat, and commandos entered despite the lack of a safe landing zone for helicopters. The mission caused minimal disruption, as it coincided with a time of low activity at the site. The combined efforts of the Israeli Air Force and Navy provided essential cover for the ground troops. After completing their objectives and regrouping, the explosives were detonated, resulting in the total destruction of the facility. This operation is viewed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as one of their most audacious missions conducted beyond their borders, signifying a further commitment to neutralizing threats posed by Iran and its proxies in the region. Achieving such a precise strike from dozens of kilometers away exemplifies Israel's strategic capabilities and intentions to prevent advanced weaponry from reaching Hezbollah, thereby contributing to regional stability.