What it’s about
An investigative report from Kan reveals the Israeli Air Force (IAF) was unprepared during Hamas’ mass infiltration from Gaza on October 7, facing significant challenges in aircraft availability and intelligence operations.
Why it matters
This report underscores the hurdles the IAF encountered, pointing to issues related to readiness and the rapid response required, shedding light on the complex situation that affected not only military operations but also the safety of civilians.
Details
The Kan investigation, including findings from the IAF’s unpublished evaluations, reveals issues with the air force’s ability to gather effective real-time intelligence. Additionally, securing sensitive materials proved problematic, with Israeli ground commanders at times having less information than the civilian public.
Key Points
1.Limited resources:
At the time of the attack, the IAF had only a minimal number of aircraft ready—two fighter jets and two additional planes. Additionally, there was just one surveillance drone monitoring Gaza with no personnel using its feed in real time when the attack began.
2.Timeline of response:
Initial questioning of the lack of significant Israeli aerial involvement sprung up almost immediately, given Israel’s sophisticated air capabilities. It took the air force 45 minutes to deploy a response in the form of a drone which was ineffective against the immediate threat
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3.Lack of real-time information:
Reports indicate that the IAF chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar was initially uninformed regarding the horrendous massacre at the Supernova rave, learning vital details only ten hours post-attack. This emphasizes limitations in immediate situational awareness.
4.Challenges faced:
Though more aircraft were deployed around ten a.m., comprehensive airstrikes were delayed, initially tasked with protecting strategic assets rather than targeting offensive operations near Gaza. Constraints in gathering intelligence, from rocket targets to fighting on multiple fronts, compounded these challenges.
Resilience in the face of adversity
Despite initial setbacks, the IAF managed significant airstrikes within hours, targeting crucial locations and aiding in evacuation efforts. The situation serves as a reminder of the pressing need for constant vigilance and readiness, something the IDF and the IAF continuously strive to improve even when caught in unprecedented situations.
Looking ahead
Going forward, action plans and preparatory drills must be refined, ensuring all forces are better equipped to operate effectively under high-stress conditions. Continuous learning and adaptation based on experiences from events like October 7 will strengthen Israel’s defense capabilities.
Further inquiries
Though details of ongoing inquiries within the IDF have emerged piecemeal, full findings will provide additional perspective on improving strategic and operational readiness to protect civilians and ensure national security effectively.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.