Unveiling the Arsenal: Israel's Ingenious Tactics to Confront Hamas's Underground Tunnels

 In the complex landscape of conflict between Israel and Hamas, the battleground has extended beneath the surface, into the intricate network of tunnels meticulously constructed by the latter. As the Israeli military gears up to face the challenges posed by the expansive "Gaza Metro," a multifaceted approach is emerging, featuring robots, attack dogs, and specialized units. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the arsenal that Israel brings to tunnel combat.

Understanding the Threat: Hamas's Underground Labyrinth

Hamas has spent nearly a decade constructing a vast labyrinth of tunnels beneath Gaza, some reaching depths of 70 meters. These tunnels serve as storage for weapons, fuel, and food, making their destruction vital for any Israeli success. To counter this underground challenge, Israel has devised a strategic plan encompassing both technological innovations and specialized forces.

Specialized Tunnel Combat Units: Sting and Weasel Commandos

Israel has established two specialized units to navigate and neutralize the subterranean threat:

1. Oketz or "Sting" Dog Units:

• Comprising highly trained attack dogs, Oketz units bring a unique canine perspective to tunnel combat.
• These dogs, likely led by the intelligent and aggressive Belgian Malinois, specialize in sniffing out explosives, locating entrances, and attacking armed personnel.

2. Samur "Weasel" Subterranean Commandos:

• Specially selected troops trained to operate in enclosed and claustrophobic conditions.
• Known for their ability to maintain a psychological distance from challenging situations, these commandos are tasked with entering the tunnels.

Technological Marvels: Robots for Tunnel Reconnaissance

To gain a tactical advantage before any tunnel assault, Israel is leveraging state-of-the-art robotic technology, developed by Tel Aviv-based company Roboteam. The arsenal includes:

1. IRIS "Throwbot":

• A small robot capable of navigating tunnels and relaying critical information back to operators.
• Equipped with specialist sensors to detect objects and people, IRIS plays a crucial role in reconnaissance.

2. MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot):

• Developed by Roboteam, this robot can navigate stairs and confined spaces, providing versatility in tunnel environments.

3. Tactical Tracked Drones:

• Israel is exploring the deployment of airborne drones equipped with small bombs inside the tunnels, potentially drawing inspiration from tactics used by Ukraine against Russia.

Siege Tactics and Offensive Measures

Israel's strategy involves a combination of offensive and defensive measures:

1. GBU-28 Bunker-Buster Bomb:

• A powerful 2,300kg bomb designed to penetrate up to 30 meters into the ground.
• Initial attempts may involve using these bunker-buster bombs to destroy tunnels.

2. Cement and Sponge-Bombs:

• Utilizing cement and blocking agents, such as sponge-bombs, to rapidly seal tunnels.
• Sponge-bombs create an impenetrable foam when two liquids come together, hindering tunnel access.

Challenges and Future Tactics

Tunnel combat poses significant challenges, requiring a blend of physical and mental resilience. Factors like short lines of sight, easily separated troops, and constrained movement add to the complexity. To address these challenges, Israel is likely to employ its extensive urban training facilities and continue refining its tactics.

The ongoing conflict, with Israel's determination to destroy Hamas and Hamas's elaborate tunnel infrastructure, sets the stage for a complex and evolving battlefield. As both sides seek to surprise each other, the role of advanced technology, specialized units, and innovative tactics will be crucial.

In conclusion, the underground battleground in Gaza demands a multifaceted approach, and Israel's arsenal, combining canine forces, robots, and strategic weaponry, reflects a commitment to tackling the subterranean threat posed by Hamas. As the conflict unfolds, the world watches closely to see how these innovative measures will reshape the dynamics of modern warfare.