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IDF Revives 500th Armored Brigade with Female Crews

1/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Israel Defense Forces will revive the 500th Armored Brigade, disbanded in 2003, with two battalions to be operational by mid-2026.
The plan supports IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir's goal to strengthen ground forces after lessons from October 7 war.
The brigade will operate under the 162nd Division and use Merkava Mark 4 tanks, while a pilot program will integrate female tank crews later this year.

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Story summary

The Israel Defense Forces will revive the 500th Armored Brigade, disbanded in 2003, with two battalions to be operational by mid-2026.
The plan supports IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir's goal to strengthen ground forces after lessons from October 7 war.
The brigade will operate under the 162nd Division and use Merkava Mark 4 tanks, while a pilot program will integrate female tank crews later this year.