The evolution of Israel's elite units from underground sabotage to high-tech warfare

Wars & Conflicts · Published 17 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Before the State of Israel existed, its elite forces were already fighting in the shadows. From British-assisted underground militias to specialized units capable of solo long-range navigation, the evolution of these forces reflects a transition from grassroots resistance to highly sophisticated, multi-domain special operations.

The roots of Israeli special forces trace back to the Yishuv community during World War II. To oppose Axis movements, the Palmach was created by the Haganah in 1941 as a premier combat unit with help from the British. When the British attempted to disarm the Palmach, the group went underground, conducting sabotage operations and fighting for independence. This era also saw the formation of the Palyam, a naval commando arm, and the participation of Jewish commandos in British units like No. 51 Commando.

Following the establishment of the state, the military formalized these traditions. In August 1953, Ariel Sharon commanded Unit 101, the founding special forces unit. Recruited exclusively from agricultural Kibbutzim and Moshavim via a voting process, Unit 101 pioneered small-unit maneuvers and tactical insertions. By January 1954, its experience was integrated into the 890th Paratroopers Battalion to spread its 'spirit' across the infantry. Today, the IDF maintains a tiered structure: standard combat brigades house 'Gadsar' (Reconnaissance Battalions) for battlefield support, while larger 'Sayaret' units operate under the General Staff for the most sensitive missions.

Specialization now defines the modern landscape. Sayeret Matkal performs strategic intelligence and hostage rescue, while Shayetet 13 handles maritime missions. The Air Force's Shaldag unit focuses on forward air control and target designation. Other niche units include the Alpinist for mountain warfare in the Golan Heights, Sayeret Yahalom for engineering and bomb disposal, and the Mista'arvim, who are specifically trained to operate undercover in enemy territory to capture or assassinate high-value targets.

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