Israel revives air defense battalion to counter drone threats

In Israel, recent military developments have centered around air defense enhancements to address increasing drone threats. On May 6, 2025, Israel revived the 946th Air Defense Battalion, a unit that had been retired over two decades ago, previously known for operating vintage air defense systems. This decision comes in response to persistent threats posed by drones, particularly in the northern regions of the country. The battalion is expected to utilize older systems, specifically the M163 Vulcan anti-aircraft gun, which was historically effective against aerial threats. With these changes, Israel also anticipates the introduction of the Iron Beam laser air defense system by the end of the same year. The Iron Beam is designed to intercept a variety of aerial threats, including short-range unguided rockets and drones, providing a cost-effective alternative to the existing Iron Dome system. The integration of this new technology signifies a potential shift in Israel's approach towards multi-layered air defense, enhancing the capacity to deal with low-flying UAVs that have proven problematic for existing systems. Israel has faced numerous challenges on the battlefield, especially highlighted by a devastating drone attack from Hezbollah on October 13, 2024, which resulted in significant casualties. In the aftermath of this event, discussions around the necessity of reinforcing air defenses intensified, prompting the decision to revive older battalion capabilities to cover existing gaps in the air defense strategy. Such historical weapons systems can be retrofitted and enhanced to meet modern requirements, as seen with the earlier successes of the Chaparral system during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war. The reintroduction of both the vintage and new systems signifies a blend of old and cutting-edge technology aimed at protecting Israeli airspace from a myriad of threats, particularly as drone warfare evolves globally. Reports indicate that Israel’s military may also explore the potential use of heavy truck-mounted machine guns and flak cannons, drawing on Ukraine's defensive innovations against daily drone attacks. Israel’s air defense strategy is evolving to include not just modern interceptors but also proven older systems, ensuring a comprehensive response framework for emerging threats in the region.