IDF Forms New All-Female Combat Company to Enhance Intelligence Operations

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced the establishment of a new all-female combat company within the 869th Combat Intelligence Collection Unit, set to be operational next month. This unit, part of the 91st “Galilee” Regional Division, will be stationed along Israel's northern border with Lebanon, focusing on intelligence gathering and frontline security against Hezbollah. The IDF reports that the 869th unit has successfully killed approximately 60 Hezbollah operatives and destroyed numerous terror facilities, including weapon depots, through drone strikes over the past year.

Israeli military forms new all-female combat unitIDF announces formation of new all-female combat companyWomen soldiers strengthen IDF fight on Hezbollah threats

The primary aim of the new female combat company is to enhance the operational capabilities and readiness of the unit. The IDF has emphasized that the integration of women into combat roles is driven by practical operational needs rather than social agendas. As of 2025, around 8,500 female soldiers serve in combat positions, a significant increase from previous years. The IDF's commitment to expanding female participation in combat roles is underscored by Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin, who stated that the contributions of female combat soldiers are "not a slogan" but a "proven operational fact."

IDF announces formation of new all-female combat companyIsraeli military forms new all-female combat unitWomen soldiers strengthen IDF fight on Hezbollah threats

The new female intelligence officers will join the Shahaf 869 intelligence unit, which has been instrumental in locating and neutralizing Hezbollah threats. The unit employs advanced drone technology for intelligence collection, with female soldiers specializing in drone operations. These soldiers are actively engaged in the field, utilizing tactical drones to gather intelligence while navigating the complexities of operating in hostile environments. The IDF has noted a significant increase in drone usage across its operations, with nearly every platoon commander now having access to drones for intelligence purposes.

Women soldiers strengthen IDF fight on Hezbollah threatsIsraeli military forms new all-female combat unitIDF announces formation of new all-female combat company

The formation of the all-female combat company has sparked discussions regarding the role of women in military combat units. While some segments of the media have criticized the inclusion of female soldiers in combat roles, the IDF maintains that their operational effectiveness is essential for national security. The decision to expand female participation is framed as a necessary adaptation to evolving military needs.

IDF announces formation of new all-female combat company

The establishment of the all-female combat company within the IDF's 869th Combat Intelligence Collection Unit represents a significant step in enhancing Israel's military capabilities against Hezbollah. As the IDF continues to adapt its strategies and operational structures, the integration of female soldiers into combat roles highlights a broader commitment to leveraging all available resources in national defense.

IDF announces formation of new all-female combat companyIsraeli military forms new all-female combat unitWomen soldiers strengthen IDF fight on Hezbollah threats

• “These women seem to be precisely the kind of confident and forward leaning field intelligence officers which help lead Israel's post-October 7 more aggressive strategy in enemy territory.” — Source Unspecified

Women soldiers strengthen IDF fight on Hezbollah threats

While the IDF states that the new unit will enhance operational readiness, some media outlets have raised concerns about the effectiveness and safety of integrating women into combat roles. Further analysis and data on the performance of female combat soldiers in the field may be necessary to address these concerns comprehensively.

IDF announces formation of new all-female combat company