The brains behind the strikes: A glimpse into the Air Force unit that cracks enemy targets
From engineering analysis of fortified sites to the adaptation of precise munitions: this is how the Air Force's HAK-AV unit has become the operational engine behind the approval of strike plans at the senior political and military levels. "Their opinion is highly regarded when approving strike plans; these are centers of knowledge with years of experience."
In the shadow of preparations for a broad confrontation with Iran, the operational engine behind the IDF's strike plans in the "third circle" is the Air Force's Operations Research Unit (HAK-AV). It is the body responsible for cracking the most sensitive targets and participates in shaping combat doctrine throughout the campaign since October 7 on all fronts.
At the head of the unit stands Colonel P. (the position is officially for a Lieutenant Colonel), who was granted a representative rank as a special recognition for his achievements and operational work.
Under his command, the unit developed a comprehensive and fundamental combat doctrine that combines in-depth analysis of buildings, infrastructure, and strategic targets buried deep underground. The professional staff specializes in the precise matching of ammunition types, warhead weights, and attack configurations and angles to the unique characteristics of the various aircraft.
Sources in the Air Force note that since the beginning of the fighting, the unit has crossed its traditional performance envelope, incorporating technological solutions and breakthrough ideas that have enabled successful penetration of bunkers, fortresses, and highly sensitive sites.
"The unit has proven many times in recent years that it knows how to scrape the edge of what is imaginable. Their opinion is highly regarded on the way to approving strike plans, including on complex questions of what is right to attack and how it is right to attack. These are centers of knowledge with years of experience."
Now, in light of the tangible possibility of a broad escalation on various fronts, the unit plays a significant role in decision-making processes and the approval of operational strike plans in conjunction with the professional opinion of Aman.
The plans undergo a rigorous series of screening and approval, which centers on the highest chain of command in the IDF and the political echelon, including, among others, the Minister of Defense, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Aman, the Air Force Commander, and senior officials in the General Staff's Operations Directorate.
This activity focuses the operational effort on extracting lessons in real-time and precise preparation for any future scenario. Even in cases of fortified sites, the unit knows how to perform engineering analysis and cause significant damage.
