Article - Air Marshal's Perspective

November 7, 2024November 7, 2024

531: INDIA IN THE CROSSROADS OF TRUMP 2.0

Pics courtesy Internet

My Article Published on The EurasianTimes Website on 07 Nov 24.

Donald Trump’s return will have many implications for India regarding economics, security, and global alignments. Trump is more of a businessman and generally favours bilateral trade deals over multilateral ones. He may advocate a more transactional approach in his second tenure, focusing on trade deficits. His previous administration’s tariff policies targeted many trading partners, including India, which saw increased duties on certain exports. India might face pressure to expand its markets to American goods, particularly in the agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and technology sectors. Trump’s previous immigration policies impacted the H-1B visa program, which disproportionately affected Indian workers in the tech sector. A return to these policies could limit Indian talent mobility, impacting both individuals and companies. India’s IT sector might find the U.S. less accessible for skilled migration, though Trump has sometimes indicated support for highly skilled immigration.

Security Repercussions for India

Trump’s “America First” approach sometimes means stepping back from global commitments, including military engagements abroad. If the U.S. were to reduce its military presence in Asia, this could shift greater responsibility to regional players. While India is enhancing its military capabilities, a significant U.S. pullback from the region could embolden China or other adversarial forces, increasing security pressure on India. India’s security landscape will be affected in several ways, especially concerning regional stability, defence partnerships, and counterterrorism.

Increased Demand for Strategic Alignment with the U.S. A Trump victory could mean heightened expectations for India to align with U.S. policies in the region, which could be at odds with India’s traditionally non-aligned stance. India might face pressure to take more decisive stances on issues like Taiwan, South China Sea disputes, and participation in regional blocs led by the U.S. India may have to weigh its economic and diplomatic ties with other countries, particularly Russia, against the U.S. demands for closer alignment.

China-India-U.S. Dynamics. Trump’s “Indo-Pacific” strategy strongly focuses on containing China, and a second term would likely deepen this agenda, intensifying U.S.-China competition. India would likely be asked to take a more assertive role in regional security, particularly in the Indian Ocean. While India could benefit from U.S. support in balancing China’s influence, it also risks being pulled into a more intense, potentially destabilising rivalry, which might strain its resources and complicate diplomatic relations with China.

Impact on the Quad Alliance. Trump has supported the Quad (U.S., India, Japan, and Australia), seeing it as a counterweight to China’s influence. His re-election could lead to an expanded Quad agenda, including more security collaboration in the Indian Ocean and South China Sea. This might benefit India’s strategic standing but could also draw it into more confrontation with China. The Quad’s increased visibility may create additional security risks, with China potentially reacting aggressively in the region, impacting India’s borders and maritime security.

Pakistan Policy. Trump previously adopted a tough stance on Pakistan, particularly regarding terrorism financing and harbouring militant groups that target Afghanistan and India. He may again apply pressure on Pakistan to dismantle terrorist networks. This would align with India’s security goals, potentially reducing cross-border terrorism. However, any diplomatic tension between the U.S. and Pakistan could destabilise, making Pakistan lean more heavily toward China and impacting India’s security environment.

Afghanistan’s Security Dynamics. Trump had strongly advocated withdrawing U.S. forces from Afghanistan. While a complete withdrawal has already taken place, his potential re-election could mean a lack of further U.S. engagement in Afghan stability, especially in containing Taliban and extremist groups. For India, this would mean facing an increasingly Taliban-influenced Afghanistan, leading to higher security risks, especially if terror groups resurge in the region.

Repercussions on Military Cooperation

Trump’s administration fostered strong defence cooperation with India as part of a broader Indo-Pacific strategy to counterbalance China’s growing influence. However, Trump’s unpredictable alliance approach could lead India to exercise caution. The repercussions on military cooperation between the U.S. and India could be multifaceted, introducing new strategic dynamics.

Strengthened Defence Partnership. Trump’s administration previously prioritised India as a significant defence partner within the Indo-Pacific framework. A second term could intensify military cooperation. India may receive advanced technology and intelligence sharing, and joint exercises could increase frequency and complexity. However, this could also increase India’s security obligations in the Indo-Pacific, putting it on the front lines of any U.S.-China friction in the region.

Enhanced Defence Technology and Arms Transfers. Under Trump, the U.S. could prioritise India as a key buyer of advanced defence equipment, including drones, anti-missile systems, and surveillance technology. India has acquired U.S. assets like C-17 heavy lift aircraft, C-130 Special operation aircraft, Apache attack helicopter, Chinook heavy lift helicopter, and P-8I Poseidon surveillance aircraft. A second Trump term might accelerate such sales, particularly if the U.S. encourages India to purchase high-tech systems that enhance its capabilities against China.

Military Modernisation. Trump’s administration previously pushed for arms deals with India, and a second term could further expand India’s access to U.S. military technology. This could accelerate India’s modernisation efforts, potentially providing advanced systems and technologies. Trump’s administration might push for more defence manufacturing in India through programs like “Make in India.” The U.S. could support joint ventures and technology transfers to Indian companies, allowing India to produce components of high-tech defence systems locally. While this would strengthen India’s defence manufacturing sector, there might be strings attached, with the U.S. expecting greater access to India’s defence markets and influence over India’s arms export policies.

Counterterrorism and Intelligence Sharing. Trump’s stance on counterterrorism aligns with India’s interests, and military cooperation could extend to enhanced intelligence-sharing agreements. The U.S. has been a critical partner in sharing counterterrorism intelligence with India, which helps prevent potential terrorist attacks. India’s counterterrorism efforts could be bolstered if Trump maintains or deepens intelligence sharing. However, if his administration decides to limit or privatise specific intelligence-sharing mechanisms, India might face challenges acquiring timely information.

Cyber security and Space Warfare Collaboration. Trump has shown interest in cyber defence and space as critical domains of warfare. Cooperation in these fields could deepen under his presidency, with the U.S. assisting India in building its space-based surveillance and cyber security capacities. This could help India counter cyber threats from adversaries like China and strengthen satellite surveillance of sensitive border areas. However, tighter coordination in these domains might push India further into the U.S. strategic orbit, affecting its autonomy in setting space and cyber policies.

Joint Military Exercises and Training. Military exercises like the Malabar naval drills have seen increased engagement from all Quad members (U.S., India, Japan, and Australia), aiming to boost interoperability among the forces. With Trump in office, India may face opportunities for more profound joint training and exercises, extending into new domains like cyber and space warfare.

Conclusion. Trump’s second tenure could bring some alignment on shared geopolitical interests but might introduce new uncertainties, especially in trade and immigration policies. It could deepen the relationship between the U.S. and India regarding strengthened defence cooperation and intelligence, enabling India to access advanced defence technologies and participate more actively in joint exercises. However, India might face growing expectations to align with U.S. policies in Asia, potentially narrowing its strategic autonomy and requiring it to manage and navigate a delicate and complex regional security landscape. India must weigh these factors carefully, balancing cooperation with the U.S. against its regional interests.

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November 5, 2024November 5, 2024

530: ANCIENT STOIC WISDOM FOR A MODERN WORLD

Happiness comes from aligning one’s will with nature, accepting what cannot be changed, and focusing only on what can be controlled—primarily one’s thoughts and actions.

– STOICISM

Stoicism, a Hellenistic philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium around 300 BCE, emphasises the pursuit of wisdom, self-discipline, and emotional resilience. It grew in Athens and later spread to Rome, shaping some of the most enduring thinkers in Western history, including Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, playwright Seneca, and the freed slave Epictetus. The Stoics were not merely theoretical philosophers; they crafted a way of life to achieve personal peace and strength, equipping individuals to face life’s inevitable hardships.

“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”

– Marcus Aurelius

At its core, Stoicism teaches that while we may not control external events, we have complete control over our responses. This simple yet powerful distinction between what we can and cannot control is the essence of Stoic thought, captured by Epictetus in his Enchiridion: “Some things are up to us, and some are not.” The Stoic approach encourages individuals to focus on their actions, thoughts, and attitudes—elements within their control—while accepting, with calm acceptance, the reality of things beyond their influence, such as the actions of others, outcomes of past events, or natural phenomena.

Principles of Stoicism

“In your actions, don’t procrastinate. In your conversations, don’t confuse. In your thoughts, don’t wander. In your soul, don’t be passive or aggressive. In your life, don’t be all about business.”

– Marcus Aurelius

Dichotomy of Control. Stoics advocate a fundamental divide between what is within our power and what is not. This “dichotomy of control” is the lens through which they view the world. By relinquishing any attempt to control external events or outcomes, Stoics can devote their energy to cultivating inner resilience. This distinction helps individuals avoid the frustration and helplessness that arise when they try to control things beyond their reach. Instead, Stoics channel their energy toward refining their thoughts and actions, which is a more productive and fulfilling approach.

“We are more often frightened than hurt, and we suffer more in imagination than in reality.”

– Seneca the Younger

Living in Harmony with Nature. For Stoics, living in harmony with nature means understanding and accepting one’s place in the universe. They saw nature as a rational, interconnected system and believed that human beings, as rational creatures, must align themselves with this order to live virtuous lives. Stoicism teaches that we are part of a larger whole, and acting in harmony with nature entails pursuing reason, justice, and ethical conduct. This “natural law” concept frames the Stoic emphasis on virtue, suggesting that human flourishing occurs when we act according to our nature—striving to be just, wise, courageous, and temperate.

Virtue as the Sole Good. Stoics hold that virtue—comprising wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance—is the only true good, while everything else is “indifferent” to one’s moral character. Material wealth, physical health, reputation, or life itself are viewed as external and thus neither inherently good nor bad. These things are preferred or dispreferred but do not determine a person’s happiness or virtue. This emphasis on virtue leads to a life of moral and psychological independence, where one’s sense of self-worth and contentment are anchored in one’s ethical behaviour rather than circumstances beyond one’s control.

Accepting Fate (Amor Fati). A central Stoic practice is the acceptance of one’s fate. The phrase amor fati, meaning “love of fate,” captures this sentiment: Stoics aim to accept events outside their control and embrace them as necessary and even desirable parts of the universe. This idea does not mean passive resignation; instead, it encourages an active acceptance, where one’s inner disposition remains peaceful regardless of external conditions. By developing a mindset of acceptance, Stoics believe they can endure hardships without despair, fostering inner tranquillity amid life’s inevitable challenges.

Practical Stoic Exercises

“Don’t explain your philosophy. Embody it.”

– Epictetus

Negative Visualisation. Negative visualisation, or premeditatio malorum, is a technique that visualises potential losses or misfortunes. The goal is to prepare oneself mentally for difficulties, thereby reducing anxiety about future events. By imagining worst-case scenarios, Stoics aim to minimise fear, cultivate gratitude, and reinforce the ability to respond calmly to life’s setbacks. This technique encourages resilience by fostering familiarity with possible hardships, making one’s mindless vulnerable to shock or distress when challenges do arise.

Reflection on Mortality (Memento Mori). The Stoics encourage regular reflection on mortality with the phrase memento mori, meaning “remember you will die.” This exercise serves as a reminder of life’s brevity, motivating individuals to act purposefully and make the most of their time. Rather than fostering morbid thoughts, this practice aims to cultivate gratitude for each day and encourages an appreciation of what truly matters. Recognising the finite nature of life can help one prioritise meaningful pursuits and avoid distractions or trivial concerns.

“Man conquers the world by conquering himself.”

– Zeno of Citium

Journaling and Self-Examination. Self-reflection through journaling was a common Stoic practice, famously exemplified by Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations. One can track personal growth, acknowledge mistakes, and commit to improvement by examining daily thoughts, actions, and reactions. This introspection helps Stoics remain aware of their thoughts and behaviours, ensuring they align with their principles. Journaling is thus both a practical and philosophical exercise, helping practitioners identify areas for self-improvement and maintain focus on their core values.

“It isn’t the things themselves that disturb people, but the judgements that they form about them.”

– Epictetus

Practicing Voluntary Discomfort. Stoics believed that occasional voluntary discomfort, such as fasting or exposure to cold, builds mental resilience. These controlled experiences with hardship help individuals prepare for unexpected adversities, teaching them they can endure difficulties and even live without luxuries. By embracing temporary discomfort, Stoics strengthen their ability to face real hardships with composure and courage, reducing dependence on external comforts for happiness.

Stoicism in Modern Life

“No person has the power to have everything they want, but it is in their power not to want what they don’t have, and to cheerfully put to good use what they do have.”

– Seneca the Younger

Despite its ancient roots, Stoicism remains highly relevant in modern times, offering tools to navigate a world filled with uncertainties, stress, and rapid change. Its principles are frequently applied in fields such as psychology, self-help, and leadership. For example, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), a widely used psychological approach, draws on Stoic principles, particularly the idea that our interpretations, not external events, cause distress. Stoicism’s emphasis on controlling thoughts and reframing negative experiences parallels CBT techniques, making Stoic practices accessible and effective in mental health.

“Life is divided into three periods: that which has been, that which is, that which will be. Of these the present is short, the future is doubtful, the past is certain.”

– Seneca the Younger

In professional and personal realms, Stoicism provides a framework for resilience. Leaders, athletes, and entrepreneurs often use Stoic practices to remain calm under pressure, focus on their actions, and detach from external results. By prioritising virtues over outcomes, individuals can make ethical decisions, reduce anxiety, and cultivate emotional stability.

“Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens.”

– Epictetus

Criticisms and Misunderstandings. Stoicism has been misunderstood as a philosophy of emotional suppression or apathy, largely due to its emphasis on rationality and detachment from externals. However, Stoics do not advocate for emotional numbness; instead, they seek to moderate destructive emotions, cultivating a calm mind capable of experiencing joy, love, and empathy without being enslaved by negative emotions like anger or fear.

“All things are parts of one single system, which is called nature; the individual life is good when it is in harmony with nature.”

– Zeno of Citium

Ultimately, Stoicism teaches that true contentment arises not from controlling external circumstances but from cultivating a mindset of acceptance, virtue, and purpose. Stoicism provides a pathway to inner peace, moral integrity, and a life grounded in reason by focusing on what lies within our power and releasing attachment to what does not. Its timeless lessons inspire those seeking resilience and tranquillity in an unpredictable world.

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November 4, 2024November 4, 2024

529: LEARNING FROM ISRAELI DEFENCE FORCES: (PART I: Israeli Defence Forces)

Pic: Courtesy Internet

My article published on the Chanakya Forum website on 05 Nov 24.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF), also known in Hebrew as Tzahal, are the military forces of the State of Israel. Tzahal, which stands for Tzva HaHagana LeYisrael, is the Hebrew acronym for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). It translates literally to the “Army of Defence for Israel. Tzahal is deeply integrated into Israeli society due to mandatory military service and is prominent in the national consciousness. Established in 1948 following the creation of the state, the IDF serves as Israel’s primary defence organisation, protecting the country’s sovereignty and citizens.

The IDF has been involved in various conflicts and military operations, including wars with neighbouring states (1948, 1956, 1967 Six-day War, 1973 Yom Kippur War) and numerous operations in Gaza and the West Bank, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The ongoing tension and violence between Israel and groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as border defence, are central focuses of the IDF’s modern-day operations. It uses a combination of ground, air, and naval forces for these operations. Numerous lessons can be drawn from this active and experienced force.

Israeli Defence Forces

Tasks and Roles. IDF’s primary mission is to protect Israel’s borders and ensure the security of its citizens. This involves deterring potential threats, carrying out defensive and pre-emptive operations, and responding to external and internal dangers. IDF is also responsible for counterterrorism efforts, intelligence gathering, and rapid response to any incursions or attacks, particularly those involving groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and other militant organisations. The IDF also plays a role in peacekeeping and disaster relief operations worldwide when needed.

Technological Prowess. The IDF places great importance on maintaining cutting-edge military technology, has a robust defence industry, and cooperates closely with allies, particularly the U.S. Israeli innovations like the Iron Dome missile defence system and advanced drone technology play a significant role in the military’s defensive strategies.

Manpower. Israel has a system of compulsory military service for most Israeli citizens, including both men and women. Typically, men serve for around 32 months and women for around 24 months. Most of Israel’s military capacity depends on reservists, who are periodically called up for training and active duty.

Israel Ground Forces.

The Israel Ground Forces are the land-based component of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and serve as the backbone of Israel’s military operations. They are responsible for defending the country’s borders, engaging in combat, and securing critical objectives during war or conflict. Israel’s Ground Forces are considered highly skilled, well-trained, and technologically advanced. The Ground Forces are composed of various corps and units that work together to provide tactical support on the battlefield.

Infantry Corps. The infantry forms the core of the ground forces and is responsible for engaging enemies in close combat and securing territories. Major infantry brigades include the Golani Brigade, Givati Brigade, Nahal Brigade, and Kfir Brigade. These brigades are trained in various operations, from urban warfare to anti-terror missions.

Armoured Corps. The Armoured Corps uses Merkava, which was domestically developed and is recognised as one of the world’s most advanced tank series. The corps is critical in offensive and defensive operations, particularly in open field and desert terrain.

Artillery Corps. The Artillery Corps provides fire support for the infantry and armoured units, utilising long-range howitzers, mortars, and rocket systems. They are crucial for targeting enemy positions from a distance and supporting ground manoeuvres.

Combat Engineering Corps. These units are responsible for constructing and dismantling fortifications, clearing minefields, and breaching enemy defences. They are vital for ensuring the mobility of IDF forces in hostile environments and play a key role in defensive and counter-terrorism operations.

Paratroopers Brigade. The Paratroopers are an elite unit known for rapid deployment and airborne assault capabilities. They are often used in special operations and high-priority missions behind enemy lines.

Special Forces Units. The Ground Forces also encompass several elite special forces units trained for unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, intelligence gathering, and hostage rescues. Units such as Sayeret Matkal (the IDF’s principal Special Forces unit), Shayetet 13 (elite naval commandos), and Duvdevan (undercover units) fall under this category.

Border Defence Units. The Ground Forces include specific units dedicated to patrolling and securing Israel’s borders, especially with Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and Egypt. They focus on thwarting infiltration, smuggling, and border attacks.

Israeli Air Force.

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) is one of the world’s most advanced and capable air forces. It is known for its high operational effectiveness, state-of-the-art technology, and strategic importance to Israel’s defence. The IAF is a crucial branch of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and is critical in maintaining Israel’s security and deterrence posture in a volatile region. It symbolises the country’s resolve to defend itself in an often hostile regional environment. The IAF has built a global reputation for excellence in air combat and defence through innovation, highly trained personnel, and cutting-edge technology.

Formation. The IAF was officially established on May 28, 1948, shortly after the creation of the State of Israel. It initially consisted of a small fleet of mainly outdated World War II-era foreign aircraft. Over time, the IAF evolved into a sophisticated, modern air force focused on air superiority, precision strikes, intelligence gathering, and air defence.

Mission and Roles. The IAF is responsible for maintaining control of Israeli airspace and ensuring that no enemy aircraft can operate above Israeli territory. It conducts targeted airstrikes against enemy military installations, terrorist bases, and high-value targets that threaten Israel’s security. These operations are designed to neutralise threats quickly and with minimal collateral damage. It also conducts continuous surveillance using advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and reconnaissance aircraft to gather intelligence on hostile forces and threats. In its Air Defence role, it operates missile defence systems like the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow to protect Israeli cities and strategic sites from rocket and missile attacks. The transport and helicopter fleet of the IAF provides airlift and logistical support to Israeli military operations and humanitarian missions, both domestically and abroad. It also conducts search and rescue missions.

Aircraft. The IAF operates a wide range of cutting-edge aircraft, many of which are sourced from the United States, while others are modified with Israeli-made technology. The IAF’s backbone consists of fighter jets like the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-15 Eagle, with Israel being one of the largest aircraft operators outside the U.S. In recent years, the IAF has also acquired the F-35 Lightning II (Adir), a fifth-generation stealth fighter, enhancing its ability to strike undetected in hostile airspace. The IAF operates AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, providing air support for ground forces and precision strikes against armoured and terrorist targets. Israel is a world leader in drone development. The IAF operates a range of UAVs for intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, including the Heron and Eitan drones. The IAF uses C-130 Hercules and C-130J Super Hercules for transport missions, along with Boeing 707 and KC-135 aircraft for aerial refuelling.

Technological Edge. The IAF is known for its ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its operations. Israel’s aerospace and defence industries, such as Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, develop advanced avionics, electronic warfare systems, and weaponry that significantly enhance the IAF’s capabilities.

Missile Defence. The IAF also plays a significant role in missile defence. The Iron Dome system is a short-range missile defence system designed to intercept and destroy rockets and artillery shells fired at Israeli civilian areas. David’s Sling is designed to intercept medium-to-long-range missiles and rockets. The Arrow system is a long-range missile defence system capable of intercepting ballistic missiles at high altitudes.

Pilot Training and Recruitment. IAF pilots undergo one of the world’s most rigorous and prestigious training programs, which only a small percentage of recruits complete. The training emphasises flying skills, leadership, teamwork, and operational flexibility. Israel also recruits highly skilled operators for its drone and intelligence units, who play a crucial role in modern warfare and intelligence-gathering operations.

Strategic Importance. The IAF is vital for Israel’s deterrence strategy in the Middle East, as it projects Israeli power and provides a rapid response to emerging threats. Its capabilities allow Israel to conduct long-range operations, often with minimal outside support, and provide a strong defence against regional adversaries like Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas.

Israeli Navy.

The Israeli Navy is the maritime branch of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and plays a crucial role in defending Israel’s coastline, securing its maritime borders, and conducting naval operations. Despite being smaller than Israel’s air and ground forces, the navy is crucial to its overall defence strategy, particularly given Israel’s strategic position along the Mediterranean Sea and its economic reliance on maritime trade. It protects Israel’s 273-kilometer Mediterranean coastline and its naval assets, such as offshore gas fields (the Tamar and Leviathan fields) and ports (the ports of Haifa and Ashdod). It enforces maritime blockades when necessary, particularly off the coast of Gaza, to prevent smuggling of arms to hostile groups like Hamas. It also conducts anti-smuggling and counter-terrorism operations to stop arms, militants, and contraband from reaching enemy forces. The Israeli Navy operates a fleet of Dolphin-class submarines, considered one of its most strategic assets. These submarines are rumoured to have second-strike capabilities and may be armed with nuclear-tipped cruise missiles, although Israel has not confirmed this officially. The navy’s surface fleet includes corvettes, missile boats, and patrol boats. Ships like the Saar-class corvettes have advanced missile systems and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The Israeli Navy is home to the elite commando unit Shayetet 13, which specialises in sea-to-land incursions, counter-terrorism, sabotage, intelligence gathering, and hostage rescue missions. Shayetet 13 is known for conducting highly classified and daring missions, sometimes deep inside enemy territory or at sea. The Israeli Navy has been involved in several critical military operations. The navy successfully protected Israel’s coastline and engaged in naval battles with Arab forces during the 1967The Six-Day War. Shayetet 13 commandos participated in the rescue of hostages from a hijacked aeroplane in Uganda in Operation Entebbe. During Operation Cast Lead (2008–2009) and Operation Protective Edge (2014), the Navy played a role in blockading Gaza, preventing arms smuggling, and providing support to ground and air forces during military operations against Hamas. The navy intercepted the Gaza Flotilla in 2010, attempting to breach the Gaza blockade, an operation that turned controversial after violent confrontations on one of the ships.

Notable Operations Conducted by Israeli Defence Forces.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) has conducted numerous military operations since its establishment in 1948. List of notable operations undertaken by Israeli Defence Forces:-

- 1948 Arab-Israeli War (War of Independence).

- 1956 Suez Crisis (Operation Kadesh).

- 1967 Six-Day War.

- 1973 Yom Kippur War.

- Operation Entebbe (1976).

- Operation Opera (1981).

- 1982 Lebanon War (Operation Peace for Galilee).

- First Intifada (1987–1993).

- Operation Defensive Shield (2002).

- 2006 Lebanon War.

- Operation Cast Lead (2008–2009).

- Operation Pillar of Defence (2012).

- Operation Protective Edge (2014).

- Operation Northern Shield (2018-2019).

- Operation Black Belt (2019).

- Operation Guardian of the Walls.

- Operation Breaking Dawn (2022).

(Coming Soon: Part II of the article will discuss relevant details of the operations conducted by the Israeli Defence Forces and the lessons drawn).

Link to the article:-

LEARNING FROM ISRAELI DEFENCE FORCES (PART I: Israeli Defence Forces)

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References

Jewish Virtual Library, “Israel Defense Forces: Wars & Operations”, https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/israel-s-wars-and-operations

Israeli Air Force website, https://www.idf.il/en/mini-sites/israeli-air-force/

By the Center for Preventive Action, “Israeli-Palestinian Conflict”, Global Conflict Tracker, 06 Oct 2024.

Army University Press, “Israeli Conflicts”, https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Books/CSI-Press-Publications/Israeli-Conflicts/

Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica, “Arab-Israeli wars”, Britannica, 09 Sep 2024.

Dr Jack Watling and Nick Reynolds, “Occasional Papers – Tactical Lessons from Israel Defense Forces Operations in Gaza”, RUSI, 11 Jul 2024.

Brief, “Lessons from Israel’s war in Gaza”, Rand Corporation.

Daniel Byman, “Lessons from Israel’s Last War in Lebanon”, CSIS Brief, Center for Strategic and International Studies, 02 Oct 2024.

Report, “Lessons from Israel’s Forever Wars”, Reports and Papers Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School.

Raphael S. Cohen, David E. Johnson, David E. Thaler, Brenna Allen, Elizabeth M. Bartels, James Cahill, Shira Efron, “Lessons from Israel’s Wars in Gaza”, RAND Research Summary, 18 Oct 2017.

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