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January 31, 2008:
They are known as the "commander's eyes on the battlefield." Coalition forces have used them to find roadside bombs, track the enemy's movement, clear convoy routes and locate key targets -- all without having to leave the relative safety of their bases. Remote- and satellite-controlled unmanned aircraft systems are transforming the way the military conducts aerial reconnaissance, surveillance and target-acquisition missions. Soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team have been using the Shadow unmanned systems to monitor the battlefield since they arrived in northeastern Iraq's Kirkuk province in October. "The Shadow has been a tremendous asset to our brigade's combat operations," Army Sgt. 1st Class Nicholas Thornthwaite, unmanned aircraft systems platoon sergeant in the brigade's Special Troops Battalion, said. "We have been able to get a picture of the battlefield before we send our troops outside the wire." The soldiers complete rigorous maintenance and performance checks before each launch of the Shadow, sometimes taking the system completely apart and putting it back together to ensure the machine is operational. They lock on to the Shadow's frequency using a satellite, monitoring and controlling the system from a ground control station. The system transmits images in near-real time, and soldiers view the footage on television sets and computer monitors. The battalion's unmanned aircraft system operators have twice located terrorists planting improvised explosive devices and tracked their movement, allowing safe disposition of the bombs and the capture of the bombers. "With these systems, we are able to stay on top, stay observant and keep an eye out," said Army Sgt. Josh Nelson, UAS training, knowledge and standardization operator. "We are similar to a TV crew, but with a much bigger mission." These systems give coalition forces the upper hand on the battlefield and save lives, said UAS operator Army Spc. William Arms. "When we discover an IED using the UAS, that is one less IED that can kill an American soldier," he said. "These systems give us a much-needed advantage. We are in the enemy's backyard, and we are unfamiliar with this terrain. Using the Shadow allows us to look around the corner without having to walk around out there." (Spc. Jason Jordan, "Unmanned Aircraft Transform Combat Operations," American Forces Press Service, January 31, 2008). January 31, 2008:
The Boeing Company is awarded a $116 million U.S. Air Force contract for more than 4,000 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) tail kits. Boeing will deliver the kits in 2009 and 2010. The Lot 12 production contract also includes options for additional tail kits in Lots 13 -17, with a potential total value of $590 million with deliveries through 2015. "JDAM provides warfighters an effective, accurate and battle-tested weapon," said Kerry Bush, Boeing JDAM program manager. "The Lot 12 contact and its additional options assure the long-term availability of this cost-effective solution." The Air Force and Navy have used JDAM weapons extensively in Afghanistan and Iraq. JDAM is a low-cost guidance kit that converts existing 500-, 1,000- and 2,000-pound unguided free-fall bombs into accurately guided "smart" weapons. Boeing has produced more than 190,000 JDAM tail kits since 1998. ("Boeing Awarded $116 Million JDAM Production Contract," Boeing Press Release, January 30, 2008). January 31, 2008:
"The IDF views the report of the Winograd Committee as an important document, and is obliged to evaluate its contents and act accordingly to correct any shortcomings. As a body that is constantly under public scrutiny, the IDF considers this report to be important tool for detecting and correcting its problems and shortcomings. The IDF is fully aware of the failures and lessons that were revealed in the different fields during the Second Lebanese War, and to the perception that was created among the Israeli public, therefore it is in a midst of a comprehensive and continuing process of correction." Complete text Here. ("IDF Response to the Report of the Winograd Committee," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 30, 2008). January 30, 2008:
Israeli Air Force Chief, Brig.-Gen. Eliezer Shkedi: "Everybody who is familiar with this field and looks at it from an operational perspective, understands that there will be those that will try to carry out attacks on [satellite] assets such as these...I suggest that we understand this and think about methods of defense even in the case of a physical strike, obstructing or blinding (the satellites). (Hanan Greenberg, "Air Force Chief Warns of Possible Attack on Satellites," YnetNews, January 30, 2008). January 30, 2008:
A new breaching apparatus that will be fitted on APCs is expected to enter service for the Combat Engineering Corps next year. The new apparatus will be called the 'Hatfan,' and will accompany reservist battalion APCs in the field. The general service Combat Engineering battalions that use the 'Puma' armored vehicle currently use an apparatus called the 'Tsafash' whose main vocation is to clear a path through a minefield for other armored vehicles to pass. A battalion using an APC for transport and operations currently cannot carry various breaching apparatus atop their vehicle, and is therefore dependent on an Armored Corps company to bring the apparatus. "The 'Hatfan' is supposed to solve that problem and allow these battalions to be much more independent," explained the Instruction Officer of the Combat Engineering GHQ, Major Meirav Ben Shushan. "This gives them a great advantage as they operate on the battlefield." The 'Hatfan' is currently in use by the US military and has the unique capability of being pulled by an APC deep into the field. It can breach minefields and obstacles, and clear routes for other vehicles to pass. The new apparatus is expected to enter service sometime next year. (Bar Ben-Ari, "New Breaching Equipment for Ground Forces," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 30, 2008). January 30, 2008:
Coalition forces in Iraq detain 18 suspected terrorists during operations to disrupt al Qaeda networks operating in the central and northern parts of the country. -- North of Samarra, coalition forces captured an alleged al Qaeda in Iraq agent linked to supplying improvised explosive devices and weapons to terrorists operating in the region. Reports indicate the detainee has ties to senior al Qaeda leaders. Four other suspects also were detained. -- Coalition forces north of Baqouba detained six more terrorism suspects. -- In Tarmiyah, coalition forces detained two suspects. Southwest of Baghdad, a suspected terrorist was detained during an operation targeting an alleged IED cell leader in Karkh. -- Further north in Sharqat, coalition forces detained four more suspects linked to al Qaeda in Iraq operations. ("Coalition Forces in Iraq Capture 18 Suspected Terrorists," American Forces Press Service, January 29, 2008). January 30, 2008:
Dr. Abdullah bin Aqla Al-Hashim (GCC Assistant Secretary General for Human and Environmental Affairs) notes that the GCC is planning to prepare studies on the implementation of nuclear program for peaceful purposes. The studies are slated to cover all related sides and dimensions to the nuclear programs or projects that will be agreed on by the GCC states in the future such as the legal, legislative, economic, technical and environmental sides as well as issues pertaining to the nuclear security, radiation, human cadres, scientific research and other related matters. ("Studies for Usage of Nuclear Energy for Peaceful Purposes in GCC," Saudi Press Agency [Accessed on the Gulf in the Media Website], January 29, 2008). January 30, 2008:
The Office of Naval Research is slated to test fire an electromagnetic railgun (EMRG) at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren, Va. on Jan. 31, 2008. The gun will be fired at over 10 megajoules of energy – a power level never before achieved by an EMRG. Railguns provide a capability for sustained, offensive power projection, complementary to missiles and tactical aircraft. They may be a cost-effective solution to the Marine Corps Naval Surface Fire Support requirements because of their unique capability to simultaneously satisfy three key warfighting objectives: extremely long ranges; short time-of-flight; and high lethality (energy-on-target). Railgun research in the United States has been ongoing for more than two decades. In the 1980s, railgun research was conducted under the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) in an effort to develop space-based intercept of intercontinental ballistic missiles. The Army began research in 1985 to develop a mobile, ground-based electromagnetic system capable of defeating future armored combat vehicles, and it is the refurbished SDI launcher that is currently installed at NSWC Dahlgren. ("U.S. Navy set to Break Electromagnetic Railgun Record," DoD Advisory, January 29, 2008; Lucia Sanchez, "Electromagnetic Gun Facility Operational with Successful First Test," U.S. Navy Press Release, October 23, 2006). January 29, 2008:
Israeli security sources confirm that Palestinian terrorists have crossed into the Sinai from Gaza. As many as 20 cells may be organizing to "launch significant attacks on targets in Israel." An Israeli officer notes: "We know for certain that some of the 'bad guys' crossed into Egypt together with the Gazans who came to buy supplies...Now, they're hoping that it will be much easier to launch attacks across the border with Egypt than from Gaza." Consequently, the IDF has bolstered its forces along the Egyptian border and deployed Border Police personnel in Eilat. (Rebbeca Anna Stoil, "IDF Beefs Up Forces to Thwart Terror Cells Which Left Gaza," Jerusalem Post, January 29, 2008). January 29, 2008:
Elbit Systems Ltd. announces that it has been awarded a contract from the Netherlands MoD for the supply of advanced Battlefield Management Systems - BMS. Elbit Systems won the contract, scheduled to be completely delivered over five years, following an international tender participated by several of the leading defense companies in the world. Elbit Systems will supply systems to the Royal Netherlands Army's (RNLA) Ground Forces that will include Enhanced Tactical Computers - ETCs, incorporating Tactical Communication Devices, and Data Communication Software. The systems will be installed in more then 1800 of the RNLA's vehicles, including tanks, armoured vehicles and others. The project involves extensive cooperation with the Netherlands MoD's C2 Support Centre. Defense Secretary of State said in his announcement to the Dutch Parliament that the Battlefield Management System delivered to the RNLA's Ground Forces will provide an integrated- and actual view of the situation in the operation area, improving operational effectiveness of the forces. ("Elbit Systems To Supply Royal Netherlands Army (RNLA) Advanced Battlefield Management System (BMS) Valued At Approximately $40 Million," Elbit Press Release, January 28, 2008). January 29, 2008:
"[During] a joint IDF, special Border Police unit and ISA operation, forces arrested the head of the Islamic Jihad terror organization in Bethlehem. Muhammad Isa Halil Abeda commanded several Islamic Jihad terror cells and was involved in the planning and funding of terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers. Abeda was arrested after hiding for several hours in his house. After a violent riot erupted, IDF forces responded using means of riot dispersal at dozens of Palestinians that hurled Molotov cocktails, building blocks and rocks at the forces. After a number of rioters opened fire at the soldiers, the forces returned fire at their lower bodies." ("Head of Islamic Jihad Terror Organization in Bethlehem Was Arrested," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 28, 2008). January 29, 2008:
BAE Systems signs an agreement with Actel Corporation to produce a radiation-hardened field-programmable gate array (FPGA) semiconductor for space use. Development of the new semiconductor will address major obsolescence problems for a variety of legacy satellite programs. The FPGA will enable producers of satellite payloads and instruments to avoid time-consuming and costly redesigns and allow satellite programs to remain on schedule. "Obsolescence is a fundamental problem in many civil, commercial, and military satellite programs," said Tim Scott, national sales manager of space components for BAE Systems. "By producing these form-fit-function replacement FPGAs, BAE Systems already has saved the government millions of dollars that would have been needed to redesign and requalify alternative parts." ("BAE Systems to Produce New Semiconductor For Satellites," BAE Systems, January 24, 2008). January 29, 2008:
Lt. Gen. William M. Fraser III, a U.S. air force general, is assigned to monitor the road map peace plan. According to a senior Bush administration official, Fraser will not mediate or enforce compliance with the road map, but simply report his findings back to Washington. ("U.S. Envoy Begins Mission to Monitor Compliance With Road Map," Associated Press, January 28, 2008). January 29, 2008:
Northrop Grumman Corporation's RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aerial system program finished 2007 on a high note, exceeding its previous record by delivering five production aircraft to the U.S. Air Force. "That is no easy feat for any program, especially for one as large and complex as the combat-proven Global Hawk, the Air Force's biggest, most-capable unmanned aerial system," said Randy Brown, Global Hawk program director for the 303rd Aeronautical Systems Group at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. "Global Hawk surpassed our expectations further by displaying its strength and versatility during the Southern California wildfires in late October, becoming the newest element in our country's firefighting arsenal." The Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Block 10 Global Hawk is currently supporting the U.S. Air Force in the global war on terrorism. During 2006, two air systems logged more than 8,000 combat hours conducting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The Global Hawks are operated overseas by USAF pilots from a mission control element stationed at Beale Air Force Base in Northern California. A launch and recovery element and a combined USAF and Northrop Grumman team are forward deployed with the air systems. The Global Hawk is equipped with electro-optical, infrared and synthetic aperture radar sensors to provide high-quality real-time imagery. ("Northrop Grumman's Global Hawk Unmanned Aerial System Surpasses Expectations, Establishes Delivery Record in 2007," Northrop Grumman Press Release, January 28, 2008; "RQ-4 Block 10 Global Hawk," Northrop Grumman Website [Accessed] January 29, 2008). January 29, 2008:
The IDF is planning to reorganize the infrastructure which makes military equipment distribution possible. This will be apparent as medical supplies, food, combat equipment, spare parts, and fuel related equipment will be provided to bases directly from one base in the center of Israel. The Combined Logistics Center will cost nearly NIS 1 billion, and is anticipated to be built by 2012 in the Shfela region. The new facility will incorporate various bodies, including: the food, medical supply, and the combat equipment directories, together with the backup stores. The munitions directory will not be incorporated due to its special requirements and the danger of transporting munitions together with other items. The Logistics Center will be a single base in the center of Israel situated near the state's main transportation routes, such as route 6, and will have access to railways, and Ben-Gurion Airport; thus distributing all of the items of equipment that IDF soldiers need more efficiently. For example, any unit will be able to order supplies from one supplier, a truck will then be sent with the equipment loaded, and the soldiers will get what they need as quickly as possible. "Within a few years the monetary benefits gained by establishing the base will pay back the cost of our investment, and will make the annual budget millions of shekels cheaper," explained the chairman of the committee which is analyzing the benefits of the new base, Colonel Div Ferj. As the base is established the property which the 13 storehouses will be built on will be sold to civilian bodies. The land is expensive property as it is near exclusive residential areas. Additionally, the staff needed to man the stores will be cut back by roughly 20 percent. The cost of the upkeep of bases which includes plumbing, electricity and property fees will also be cut back. As the center is established, there will be two equipment depots located elsewhere for times of emergency. The depots will be used to provide necessary equipment for operations, distribution to smaller bodies, establishing factories for fixing equipment, and distribution of military materiel. In a time of war, the forward depots will work in complete coordination with the distribution center. (Eladad Shalev, "New Combined Logistics Center to Ease Materiel Distribution," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 28, 2008). January 28, 2008:
The Boeing Company has been awarded a $20 million contract to provide an AH-64D Apache Longbow Crew Trainer (LCT) and Life Cycle Support to the Egyptian air force. The LCT, a full-mission, high fidelity flight simulator, provides training for Apache Longbow helicopter crews. Boeing is scheduled to deliver the LCT in July 2009. Designed to reduce recurring maintenance costs, the newly-improved LCT incorporates the latest architecture technologies and replaces aircraft components with simpler, PC-friendly software. The contract also includes two years of spares, operator and maintainer training, one year of contractor-logistics support and an option for an additional year of contractor-logistics support to be exercised at a later date. The radar-equipped AH-64D Apache Longbow features numerous enhanced capabilities, including:
January 28, 2008:
Plans to withdraw four Army brigade combat teams and two Marine battalions by July are "on track" as the military seeks to draw down the number of troops in Iraq as quickly as ground conditions allow. According to Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, the scheduled withdrawal will reduce the number of troops at the height of the surge by one quarter, or roughly 42,500. Further reductions after July will be based on the state of Iraq's security. The Multinational Force Iraq commander also notes that he does not foresee the U.S. maintaining a permanent military presence in Iraq, but rather a smaller number of U.S. troops remaining in Iraq "for some period of years." "I think our soldiers were prepared intellectually for the concept that there were reconcilables whom we needed to reach out to and try to become part of the solution over time, rather than part of the problem...And you try to minimize the number of irreconcilables, because at the end of the day, they have to be killed, captured, or run out of the country." (John J. Kruzel, "Petraeus: Upcoming Troop Reduction Plans 'On Track'," American Forces Press Service , January 28, 2008). January 28, 2008:
Egyptian security forces order shops to close in the city of Al-Arish, bordering the Gaza Strip. The move is apparently a warning to Palestinians who crossed the breached PA-Egypt border. In addition, Egyptian security forces establish several checkpoints between the cities of Rafah, directly on the border, and Al-Arish, to the south. ("Egypt Shuts Down Al-Arish in Apparent Warning to Palestinians," Ma'an News, January 28, 2008; "Egypt Clamps Down on Rafah Border," Ma'an News, January 28, 2008). January 28, 2008:
The IAF targets a convoy of Hamas armored vehicles in the Gaza Strip. The vehicles were reportedly deployed in the former Israeli community of Morag (southern Gaza sector). (Yuval Azoulay and Avi Issacharoff, "IAF Wounds Four Hamas Militants in Strike on Armored Car in Gaza," Ha'aretz, January 28, 2008). January 27, 2008:
Approximately 20 Israeli Arabs from Jisr A-Zarka and the Wadi Ara region were recently arrested in a joint ISA-Israel Police operation on suspicion of involvement in illegally trafficking in weapons and munitions. Six of those arrested were indicted today (Sunday), 27.1.08. The principal accused is Hamza Masri, 24, from Kafr Kara, who is accused of trafficking in weapons and munitions with Shahar Hanina, 41, the head of the Tanzim in Kalkilya. It is alleged that in 2005, Masri acquired a pistol for Hanina, as well as a 15-kilogram bag of potassium for use in preparing explosives, Masri was fully aware of the intended use of the potassium. Masri was arrested in 2005 and warned about his ties with Hanina, whom he knew headed the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades in Kalkilya. Upon his release later that year, Masri continued his links with Hanina. Masri purchased tens of thousands of dollars' worth of weapons and munitions for Hanina, including an M-16, a hunting rifle and a laser sight for an M-16. See http://tinyurl.com/26tpy4 for details on ties between terrorists in Judea and Samaria and criminal elements in Israel in 2007: Arms Ties between Terrorists in the Territories and Criminal Elements in Israel Over the past year, many cases were uncovered regarding ties involving arms between criminal elements in Israel and terrorist operatives in Judea and Samaria and in the Gaza Strip. Security forces are engaged in a constant war on the trade and smuggling of arms, including from IDF bases, and their sale to terrorist operatives in the Territories. These ties between terrorists and criminals holding Israeli identity cards facilitate the acquisition of arms and ammunition which ultimately are used in attacks against Israel. The danger inherent in these ties is seen in the case of Hamas operatives and arms dealers from Jabel Mukaber, in East Jerusalem, who were ultimately arrested. They were found to have had ties with two Hamas operatives who carried out the shooting attack at the Sheikh Sa'ed checkpoint, in the separation fence around Jerusalem, in May 2007. One of the persons arrested provided the terrorists with a weapon a few hours before the attack, in which two security forces were injured, one of them seriously. The terrorists, who hold Israeli identity cards and live in Jabel Mukaber, were killed in an exchange of gunfire during the incident. Under questioning, the detainees admitted that they were involved in extensive trade in arms with criminal elements, Arab Israelis from the north, and also Hamas operatives from Hebron and Bido, a village in the Ramallah District. The questioning also revealed that one of the terrorists acquired the pistol used in the attack a few hours before the attack, and that he had received it from Anan Muhammad Halaila, 21, an arms dealer, and also a resident of Jabel Mukaber. His name came up with those of other detainees as persons who had been involved in attempts to steal weapons from IDF soldiers with the intent of selling them. Another example occurred in March, when security forces uncovered a network of arms dealers from the Nazareth area, who sold munitions that had been stolen from the IDF to Palestinians in the West Bank. Among those arrested was Arkan Bashir, an IDF soldier in the standing army, who admitted under questioning that he stole munitions from the IDF and sold them to arms dealers, who then sold them to Ahmad Boz, a Fatah operative from Nablus, who was also arrested. ("Six Israeli Arabs Indicted For Arms Trafficking," Communicated by the Prime Minister's Media Adviser, January 27, 2008). January 27, 2008:
Deputy Minister of Defense and Aviation for Military Affairs Prince Khaled ibn Sultan notes that Saudi Arabia is slated to receive 72 Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft in 2009. The deal follows an August 2006 agreement and a memorandum of understanding between London and Riyadh to modernize the Saudi armed forces. BAE: "Typhoon's swing-role capability provides the widest possible range of Air-to-Air and Air-to-Surface mission profiles and will delivers unparalleled operational capability balanced by credible and defined low cost support and cost of ownership. Typhoon's flexibility and adaptability gives air forces the capability to deliver rapid and precise campaign effects deployable across the full spectrum of air operations, from air policing, to peace support, through to high intensity conflict." ("Saudi Arabia to Take Delivery of Eurofighters Next Year," Arab News, [Accessed on the Gulf in the Media Website], January 27, 2008; "Typhoon," BAE Systems Website, [Accessed] January 27, 2008). January 27, 2008:
While an open border crossing between Egypt and the PA does not bode well for controlling the proliferation of weapons and explosives, the current situation may, in fact, benefit Israel in the following ways:
January 26, 2008:
The Palestinian national conference recently held in Damascus concluded by emphasizing the following:
January 26, 2008:
Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit notes that at least 36 Egyptian security personnel have been hospitalized, including some in critical condition, as a result of violent incidents with Palestinians on the Gaza border. "These provocations cause us concern and our Palestinian brothers should note that the Egyptian decision to host them and ease their suffering should not result in threats to the lives of our sons in the Egyptian forces..." Egyptian border guards in armored personnel carriers take up positions around the breached border. Palestinians are also prevented from driving out of Rafah into the rest of Egypt. Nevertheless, some manage to reach Al Arish, approximately 35 kilometers from Gaza. (Amir Oren, "Dozens of Egyptian Police, Guards Hurt in Gaza Clashes," Ha'aretz, January 26, 2008). January 26, 2008:
On January 21, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. announced that "an advanced imaging satellite produced by IAI, employing synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, was successfully launched into orbit on an Indian Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)." The satellite, under the brand name TECSAR, was launched at the SHAR test field in southeast India in collaboration with a team of Indian and Israeli experts. The launch was carried out in accordance with a cooperation agreement between the Government of India and IAI relating to space activities. In April 2007, Northrop Grumman reported an exclusive teaming agreement with IAI to provide a responsive, cost-effective, space-based SAR capability to the U.S. government based on IAI's TECSAR multi-mode X-band radar imaging satellite. Known as Trinidad, the system is caapable of providing unique day/night and all-weather point and area collection capabilities. Trinidad can be manufactured in about 28 months and held in storage for launch on a 30-day call-up. Alexis Livanos, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman's Space Technology sector: "This new system provides a capability that complements both existing and U.S. military and intelligence community capabilities being developed...When they want to move quickly on any given contingency, users now have an option that offers greatly reduced timelines for deploying tactical satellites at low cost and at very low risk." Jeff Grant, vice president of Business Development for Northrop Grumman's Space Technology sector: "An all-weather, day/night system like this adds an operationally responsive capability to the U.S. inventory that is critically needed...Adding a responsive radar imager to our current and planned mix of space and airborne assets will enable us to hold the high ground on a global scale when dealing with the threats we face today." ("Northrop Grumman Congratulates Israel Aerospace Industries On Successful TECSAR Satellite Launch," Northrop Grumman Press Release, January 22, 2008; "Israel Aerospace Industries' Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Satellite was Successfully Launched Into Orbit on an Indian PSLV Launcher," IAI Press Release, January 21, 2008; "Northrop Grumman, Israel Aerospace Industries to Offer Rapid Response, Operational Surveillance Satellites," Northrop Grumman Press Release, April 11, 2007). January 26, 2008:
(Anthony H. Cordesman, "Security and Stability in the Greater Middle East," The Center for Strategic and International Studies, January, 2008). January 26, 2008:
NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer: "Extremism, transnational crime and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are a threat to us all...Iran's uranium enrichment activities and missile programmes are indeed a continuing concern...We do not want to be a global policeman, that is not and should not be NATO's ambition, or to compete with the United Nations..." ("NATO Urges Cooperation With Gulf Over Iran," Reuters, January 25, 2008). January 26, 2008:
Coalition troops in Iraq capture seven suspected terrorists during operations in Baghdad and Beiji. In Baghdad, coalition forces captured a wanted individual allegedly involved in the facilitation of weapons, improvised-explosive-device materials, vehicles, and suicide bombers for use in al Qaeda in Iraq attacks. Reports indicate the suspect also is linked to foreign terrorist-facilitation networks, including several terrorists currently operating outside of Iraq. In Beiji, coalition forces captured two wanted individuals and four additional suspects. One of the wanted individuals reportedly is a leader of an al Qaeda-affiliated media and propaganda network. The other wanted individual was captured at a follow-on location and is believed to be an al Qaeda sniper-cell leader. Both wanted individuals are linked to numerous terrorist leaders in the region, including the senior leader of the Beiji network. During another anti-insurgent operation in the Beiji area, two suspected terrorists were detained while coalition forces targeted an alleged al Qaeda in Iraq member associated with terrorist media and propaganda operations. ("Coalition Troops in Iraq Capture 12 Suspected Terrorists," American Forces Press Service, January 25, 2008). January 25, 2008:
Warnings of terrorist attacks in Sinai have recently intensified. Terrorists in Sinai are working to abduct Israelis in Sinai and convey them to the Gaza Strip. The currently open border between the Gaza Strip and Sinai makes it easier for terrorists to move back and forth. Therefore, the National Security Council Counter-Terrorism Bureau recommends that Israelis avoid visiting Sinai and that any Israelis currently there leave forthwith. Indeed, according to Israeli defense officials, Hamas and other terrorist organizations in the Strip have utilized the newly open border with Egypt to send terrorists into the Sinai peninsula -- with the goal of infilitrating into Israel. ("Sinai Travel Warning," Prime Minister's Media Adviser, January 24, 2008; Amir Oren, "Defense Officials Say Hamas Planning to Launch Attacks From Sinai," Ha'aretz, January 25, 2008). January 25, 2008:
During the struggle, the two terrorists were killed. IDF forces are currently searching the area. An initial inquiry shows that the civilians acted bravely and managed to thwart a terror attack." (Amos Harel and Yuval Azoulay, "Israeli Killed, 4 Hurt in Two Terror Attacks Near J'lem," Ha'aretz, January 25, 2008; "IAF Strike Kills Two Militants in South Gaza Town of Rafah," Reuters, January 25, 2008; "Stabbing attack in Kfar Etzion," IDF Spokesperson's Unit, January 25, 2008). January 25, 2008:
"In light of the massive passage of Palestinians from the Gaza strip to Sinai that has included, according to security assessments, Palestinians involved in terror, the IDF raised its level of alert along the Israeli-Egyptian border. The IDF took several measures in order to guarantee the security of the citizens of Israel and Israel's borders: Shared security assessments between all security forces and Israeli internal security; Contact with communities in the Western Negev in order to provide them with guidance in accordance with the security assessments; and road number 10, along the Israeli-Egyptian border has been temporary closed to civilian traffic in order to guarantee their security." ("IDF Raises Level of Alert along the Israeli-Egyptian Border," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 24, 2008). January 25, 2008:
"While considerable attention is being directed to potential terrorist use of unconventional weapons such as chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) weapons, relatively little attention has been directed to potential terrorist use of advanced conventional weapons. The November 2002 attacks in Mombasa, Kenya, using Russian-made man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) against an Israeli airliner, attributed by some to al Qaeda, demonstrated that some terrorists are willing and interested in using relatively unfamiliar, advanced weaponry." Full Article Here. (James Bonomo, Giacomo Bergamo, David R. Frelinger, John Gordon IV, and Brian A. Jackson, "Stealing the Sword: Limiting Terrorist Use of Advanced Conventional Weapons," Homeland Security Program, RAND Corporation, November 14, 2007). January 25, 2008:
Several insurgents are killed and nine suspected insurgents detained as coalition forces conduct an operation to degrade Taliban command-and-control networks in Afghanistan's Ghazni province. Coalition forces searching several compounds in Ghazni district for a Taliban commander associated with suicide bombings were met with small-arms fire. They returned fire, using a combination of small-arms and aerial-delivered conventional munitions, killing several insurgents. The coalition forces found and detained nine individuals when they continued their search of the area. The detainees will be questioned on their involvement in facilitation operations as well as other extremist activities, officials said. Coalition forces also found and destroyed a cache of explosives to prevent further their use by extremist forces. ("Coalition Forces in Afghanistan Kill, Detain Insurgents," American Forces Press Service, January 24, 2008). January 25, 2008:
Choosing to ignore the strategic reality, Israeli diplomatic advisers hypothesized that by withdrawing completely, the occupation of Gaza would be seen as having ended, along with the responsibility for the welfare of its population. As such, Israel eventually allowed Egypt to deploy additional forces and weapons along the Gaza-Egypt border (previously limited by the 1979 peace treaty) to halt the frenetic smuggling of terrorists and weapons. Unfortunately, the advisers chose to ignore the fact that Egypt had done little to prevent weapons smuggling during the extended Palestinian terrorist war against Israel. On November 15, 2005, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice brokered a security arrangement covering the Rafah crossing. Under pressure from Javier Solana, the European Union's high representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy, and James Wolfensohn, the Quartet's special envoy in Gaza, Sharon agreed to grant the Palestinian Authority control over the Gaza-Egypt border. A European Union "monitoring mission" was established to prevent the smuggling of weapons and terrorists. Rice said the agreement "intended to give the Palestinian people freedom to move, to trade, to live ordinary lives." Full Article Here. (Aharon Etengoff, "Disengagement: A Self-Imposed Strategic Disaster," WeaponSurvey, November 1, 2006). January 24, 2008:
The primary performance parameters of IMI's SHIPON-UT are:
In anti-fortification mode, front charge penetrates reinforced concrete and main charge explodes inside structure. In anti-personnel mode, front and rear fragmentation charges separate at optimal height and explode above target. ("SHIPON-UT," IMI Website, [Accessed] January 24, 2008). January 24, 2008:
During a joint IDF, Civil Administration and ISA activity overnight, forces discovered dangerous prohibited substances in two factories east of Nablus. Among the substances found: 4 containers of Formalin, 2 containers containing over 50% concentration of Acid Sulfate, 24 containers of Acid Sulfate, 4 boxes containing Silver Nitrate, 2 bottles containing over 30% concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide and one liter of Nitrate. Such substances can be used for the production of weaponry and explosives. These types of operations will continue in order to prevent the transfer of banned substances into the Palestinian Authority. These substances are used as raw materials for the production of explosives used for terror attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers. ("Dangerous Substances Discovered," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 23, 2008). January 24, 2008:
A senior U.S. military officer notes the U.S. troop surge and the contributions of improved Iraqi security forces and concerned local citizens' groups have combined to tip the scales against al Qaeda in Iraq and other insurgents. The two-week-old Operation Phantom Phoenix that is pressuring insurgents across Iraq is building on successful surge-enabled offensives conducted in spring through the fall of 2007 in Anbar province and Baghdad, Army Brig. Gen. Joseph Anderson, chief of staff for Multinational Corps Iraq, told reporters during a conference call. "The surge forces were critical," Anderson said, noting the additional 30,000 U.S. troops provided commanders "the ability to hold ground." As the surge took hold, al Qaeda in Iraq operatives and other terrorists fled Baghdad into the Diyala River Valley and other areas north of the Iraqi capital city. This exodus is borne out by the fact that about 60 percent of terrorist attacks in Iraq now occur in the northern part of the country. (Gerry J. Gilmore, "Iraq Troop Surge Helped Set Stage for Success, General Says," American Forces Press Service, January 23, 2008). January 24, 2008:
IAI's ADAR is an advanced three dimensional (3D) solid state active phased array L-Band Radar for Air Traffic Control (ATC) and Air Defense. The ADAR simultaneously provides high update rate and long range surveillance by implementing Electronically Steered Multi-Beam techniques (ESMB). The modular, solid state, active array technology implemented in the ADAR, including multiple transmit/receive modules, provides high redundancy, graceful degradation, high reliability and high availability. The ADAR, which can be supplied either in a fixed configuration or 360 rotating configuration, can include, in addition to the primary radar, a Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR) for IFF purposes. The SSR is a two dimensional (2D) azimuth monopulse array, mounted on the back of the main antenna. The SSR performs interrogation, decoding, detection and tracking. Target information can be supplied to local operators and to remote sites via communication links. ("EL/M-2082 - ADAR - Air Traffic Control and Advanced Air Defense Radar," IAI Website, [Accessed] January 24, 2008). January 24, 2008:
For the first time in five years, hundreds of Palestinian security officers deploy in the northern West Bank village of Biddya (near Salfit). The security forces reportedly pledge to arrest criminals and clamp down on threats to public order. As per the Oslo Accords, Biddya is currently located in Area B. ("Palestinian security forces enter village in Area B near Salfit," Ma'an News, January 23, 2008). January 23, 2008:
BVR Systems wins a $3.2 million contract to supply its Naval Tactical Trainer (NTT) system to an undisclosed international customer. BVR's leading Naval Tactical Trainer (NTT), provides an advanced tactical and procedural warfare training system, covering multi-threat scenarios including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, counter-terrorism operations, littoral warfare, electronic warfare, and more. BVR's NTT allows training to be carried out with worldwide multi-threat scenarios from subunit to force levels. The NTT can be easily expanded to support operator's training at console level allowing for the simulation and stimulation of specific combat systems. NTT provides trainees with a realistic,up-to-date naval operations environment, in which the participants draw upon their theoretical knowledge and undertake naval operations in real-time for training purposes, with the objective of improving their abilities, and the testing and evaluation of new tactics. NTT architecture enables the connection and sharing of the training scenario with other tactical training systems and, thus, supports the provision of joint force tactical training. ("BVR Wins Naval Simulator Contract," Globes, January 23, 2008; "NTI - Naval Tactical Trainer," BVR Website, [Accessed] January 23, 2008). January 23, 2008:
Defense Department officials confidence in mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles is unshaken after a deadly roadside bomb in Iraq marked the first time a U.S. servicemember was killed while traveling in one of the armored vehicles. An Army gunner died, and three other soldiers were wounded when a "very large, deep-buried" improvised explosive device detonated underneath their MRAP in southern Baghdad on Jan. 19, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said during a news conference at the Pentagon today. Morrell told reporters that commanders on the ground estimate the three survivors might not have escaped life-threatening injuries in a less-protected vehicle. "I think what's remarkable about the attack is the fact that the crew compartment, despite how large the bomb was, was not compromised by the IED, and that the three crew members inside walked away with, I believe, cuts and broken bones in their feet," he said. "I think everybody is still amazed that the fact that, despite the size of this bomb, these vehicles are proven to be every bit as strong and as life-saving as we hoped they would be." (John J. Kruzel, "Pentagon Officials Remain Confident in MRAPs Despite First Casualty," American Forces Press Service, January 22, 2008). January 23, 2008:
January 23, 2008:
Rafael's SPYDER is a quick reaction, low level surface-to-air missile system designed to effectively counter attacks by aircraft, helicopters UAVs and precision guided munitions. The system provides excellent protection of valuable assets, as well as first-class defense for forces located in the combat area. The SPYDER system incorporates RAFAEL's most advanced, proven performance air-to-air missiles -- the Derby active radar (RF) missile and Python 5, a dual waveband Imaging Infra Red (IIR) missile. SPYDER missiles have full commonality with the air-to-air missile version. SPYDER's truck-mounted Missile Firing Units (MFU) are equipped with both IIR and RF missiles. The MFU carries any combination (IIR/RF) of four missiles on a rotatable launcher assembly. The system's high mobility allows quick deployment and operational agility. The SPYDER System has 360° engagement capability during day or night and under all weather conditions. The SPYDER System can engage multi threats simultaneously. It has Lock-On-Before Launch (LOBL) and Lock-On-After Launch (LOAL) modes of operation. The intercept envelope of the SPYDER system spans from less than 1km to 15 km, against targets flying at altitudes between 20 m and 9,000 m. SPYDER's highly modular structure allows simple adaptations to customers' platforms and future growth. A standard SPYDER missile battery has up to six missile firing units per battery and a command and control unit. The truck-mounted Command and Control Unit (CCU) comprises the Elta EL/M 2106 ATAR 3D surveillance radar. The surveillance radar has advanced ECCM capabilities and can simultaneously track multi-targets. Wireless data link communication enables deployment of the MFUs at a distance from the CCU. The CCU is also capable of operating with neighbouring SPYDER air defence batteries and share information with higher echelons. This interoperability capability provides the SPYDER air defense system with high flexibility in combat situations. SPYDER was developed in cooperation with IAI. System's Main Features
January 23, 2008:
Dozens of Palestinian protesters storm the Rafah border crossing with Egypt. In addition, hundreds of Palestinian women attempt to cross the border. Egyptian guards fire into the air and use water cannon to disperse the crowd. Approximately 60 people are injured in the resulting melee. (Mark Tran, "Border Protests Over Gaza Blockade," The Guardian, January 22, 2008). January 23, 2008:
Northrop Grumman Corporation congratulates Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) on the successful launch Monday of the TECSAR Satellite System. When fully operational, TECSAR will provide military users with a significant improvement in advanced imaging capabilities using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology. In April 2007, Northrop Grumman and IAI initiated an exclusive teaming agreement to provide a responsive, cost-effective, space-based SAR capability to the U.S. government based on IAI's TECSAR multi-mode X-band radar imaging satellite. Known as Trinidad, the system will provide unique day/night and all-weather point and area collection capabilities. Trinidad can be manufactured in about 28 months and held in storage for launch on a 30-day call-up. "We are confident that the high resolution imagery provided by Trinidad can become an important part of the U.S. inventory, providing global awareness," said Jeff D. Grant, vice president and general manager of the company's National Systems Division. "Northrop Grumman is ready to quickly deliver Trinidad to help the U.S. gain a more complete picture of the threats we face today on a global scale." ("Northrop Grumman Congratulates Israel Aerospace Industries On Successful TECSAR Satellite Launch," Northrop Grumman Press Release, January 22, 2008). January 23, 2008:
While the need to detect such "killer asteroids" is obvious, smaller "near-Earth asteroids" (NEA) can also cause devastation. In fact, NASA set a goal to identify 90 percent of the NEAs that measure one kilometer in diameter or larger by 2008. As this deadline approaches, the search has become increasingly difficult since many of the larger and brighter asteroids have already been discovered. SAIC's Peter Gural (and colleagues) developed software that used matched filter image processing to better detect asteroids. This software — SAIC Algorithmic Testbed for Asteroid Detection (SALTAD) — extends detection ranges to distant asteroids to better help identify asteroids in densely cluttered starfields (most asteroids orbit in the main belt between Mars and Jupiter). ("SAIC Software Detects Stealthy Asteroids," SAIC Magazine, Summer/Fall 2007). January 23, 2008:
Likud MK Yuval Steinitz: "The National Intelligence Estimate is the most bizarre report I have ever read...The report was given to the White House and relevant agencies unannounced, so there is a certain problem regarding [the Aemrican] democracy...One must remember that in 2003 the US began its campaign in Iraq, and its most natural to think that military pressure, that is, the fact that the US went to war in Iraq, is what caused, [Iranian] policy makers to change their mind. But the report doesn't say this, because this would hint that the US needs to impose a military ultimatum [on Iran.]" Former US ambassador to the UN John Bolton: "The United States used to have a policy on Iran and recently there was a new push to create a new policy but sadly, due to the direction American policy is going, it seems that for the next few years the United States will be a bystander to the process...It's close to zero percent chance that the Bush administration will authorize military action against Iran before leaving office. At the same time in Teheran, they took careful notice of how Israel got into Syria [on September 6] and [began preparing] for...No one should be under any illusions about the United States as part of the Iranian situation in the coming year. The questions come to Israel, whether it will use military force to stop Iran." ("'NIE Most Bizarre Report I Ever Read'," Jerusalem Post, January 22, 2008). January 22, 2008:
European commissioner for Justice Freedom and Security, Frano Frattini: "There has been a large misunderstanding in recent years between Europe and Israel. And Israel is justified in its concerns. For too long, Europe has put too much blame on Israel for lack of peace with the Palestinians. We, as Europeans, should have understood Israel's concerns sooner... As friends, it was our duty to criticize when we felt criticism was needed, but we did it too often and unfairly. We asked you to take risks and often we didn’t provide you with assurances that you wouldn't stand alone if things went badly... Europe's attitude towards Israel is changing, and Europe better Today, Europe better understands the complexities of the Middle East landscape." (Dana Zimmerman, "Top EU Official: Gaza Siege Not a War Crime," YnetNews, January 22, 2008). January 22, 2008:
Rafael's Golan has a monocoque structure which provides the strength to absorb the deformations generated by mines and IED blasts. The crew compartment is designed to provide a modular armor protection system. The basic (maximum) protection level includes reactive modular armor tiles to defeat RPG's, IED's and up to 14.5 mm AP rounds, while the medium and light levels are based on passive modular armor to defeat small IED's and up to 12.7 mm AP bullets. The Golan is 4x4 tactical vehicle, 15 tons GVW with 315 HP engine, that has exceptional maneuverability and tractability; on/off road, cross country terrain capability. The Golan can be operated efficiently in urban arenas as well as other complicates areas The Golan's design philosophy provides maximum crew protection. The Samson RCWS (Remote Controlled Weapon Station), fire ports and hatches for additional fire possibilities add to its optimal survivability and lethality as an Armor Fighting Vehicle. The Golan can be supplied with RAFAEL's Samson RCWS, SADS (Small Arms Fire Detection System) and other RAFAEL systems. The Golan can be modified for the following applications:
January 22, 2008:
Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi: "The threat against the home front increases and by doing so it becomes an integral part of the front. This is the result of a calculated effort by the enemy to bring the hinterland closer to the front. The development of rockets and Qassams are the direct result of the fact that every face to face conflict ends with IDF supremacy. The serene daily routine of most Israelis is not granted to the residents of Sderot and the settlements around the Gaza strip, but every night and day actions are taking place in order to minimize as much as possible the Qassam and rocket fire. Despite this, the response is not complete and IDF expends great resources to provide it." ("Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi 8th Herzliya Conference Lecture Summary," 8th Herzliya Conference Lecture Summary, January 20, 2008). January 22, 2008:
PRC: "We might agree that the crossings to the Gaza Strip, which are under control of the occupation, remain closed, yet the Rafah crossing is a pure Arab property and we will not agree that it remains closed...We will not bear to watch our people being killed as a result of this siege." ("PRC: 'We Will Open Rafah Crossing by Force'," Ma'an News, January 21, 2008). January 22, 2008:
Ballistic armor kits manufacturer Rabintex Industries Ltd. sells its subsidiary Rabintex USA LLC to its partner, Ohio-based Composix Co. for $3 million. Composix manufactures composite materials and products, including armor products, bullet-resistant vests, and protective plates. ("Rabintex Sells US Subsidiary to Partner for $3M," Globes, January 21, 2008). January 21, 2008:
April 3, 1968: "Well, I don't know what will happen now. We've got some difficult days ahead. But it doesn't matter with me now. Because I've been to the mountaintop. And I don't mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I'm not concerned about that now. I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I'm happy, tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord." January 21, 2008:
Management of Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) announced that an advanced imaging satellite produced by IAI, employing synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, was successfully launched into orbit today (January 21, 2008, 05:45 Israel time) on an Indian Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). The satellite, under the brand name TECSAR, was launched at the SHAR test field in southeast India in collaboration with a team of Indian and Israeli experts. The launch was carried out in accordance with a cooperation agreement between the Government of India and IAI relating to space activities. The TECSAR's signal was received at the IAI ground station 80 minutes after launch (07:10 Israel time), immediately upon its reaching the station communication range. By all indications so far, the satellite is functioning properly. The satellite is now orbiting the Earth, and IAI's engineers and scientists have commenced the prescribed series of in-orbit tests to verify its performance. Due to the complexity of the TECSAR, as compared to satellites previously produced by IAI, the in-orbit tests are scheduled to continue for several weeks, and the first images are scheduled for receipt 14 days after launch. The TECSAR is the first satellite of its kind developed in Israel, and ranks among the world's most advanced space systems. It carries a SAR payload, designed to provide images during day, night and all weather conditions, including under cloud cover. The satellite is controlled and monitored by an IAI-based ground station. This satellite was designed, built and integrated by IAI's scientists and engineers, with the MBT Space division acting as prime contractor and Elta Systems Ltd., an IAI subsidiary, provided the SAR payload. The project included contributions from other IAI divisions, as well as from leading Israeli hi-tech companies such as Rafael, Tadiran-Spectralink and Rokar. The TECSAR joins an impressive list of satellites developed, produced and launched by IAI. As of today, 11 satellites from the Ofeq, EROS and Amos brands have been launched, including seven satellites currently in orbit. These successes contributed to IAI's recent award of a material contract to develop the Amos 4 communications satellite. Itzhak Nissan, IAI's President & CEO: "IAI's management is very proud of this achievement, which serves as additional proof of IAI's great technological and administrative capabilities, and of IAI's leadership in the Israeli space industry and other areas of advanced technology." ("Israel Aerospace Industries' Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Satellite was Successfully Launched Into Orbit on an Indian PSLV Launcher," IAI Press Release, January 21, 2008). January 21, 2008:
The commander of the Nahshon battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Nir Bar-On was lightly injured during a joint operation of the IDF and the ISA last night in Tul Karm. Morad El Basa, a member of the Tanzim terror organization fired at the military forces during the operation. Lieutenant Colonel Bar-On was lightly injured but continued to fire at the source of gunfire, charged at the wanted man and killed him. "During searches of the house of the wanted man, I checked one of the doors. When the gunman fired at me I returned fire at the source of fire; we later tossed a grenade into the house," said Lieutenant Colonel Bar-On after the operation. "The incident happened very quickly, and following it we found the armed gunman dead." "The battalion commander received on-site initial medical care, and was evacuated to the 'Meir' hospital in Kefar Saba. Lieutenant Colonel Bar-On was released from hospital and returned to his previous deployment. Additionally, IDF forces arrested six wanted operatives. ("Battalion Commander Lightly Injured During Operation," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 20, 2008). January 21, 2008:
Elbit Systems Ltd. (Electro-Optics Elop Ltd) wins $40 million in contracts from several customers for its Coral and Coral-CR hand-held thermal imaging cameras. The cameras are slated for infantry, scouts and special units. El-Op general manager Haim Rousso: "This latest string of orders continues our momentum as a major force in the field of thermal imaging. The Coral hand-held systems cover the full spectrum of military and homeland security applications." (Erez Wollberg, "Elbit Systems Wins $40m Thermal Imaging Contracts," Globes, January 20, 2008). January 21, 2008:
"Ezzedeen Al Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic resistance movement Hamas, is still firing the homemade Qassam rockets, despite the intensive presence to the Zionist war planes in the skies of Gaza Strip. The Brigades has continued its shelling at the Zionist settlements, checkpoints and the military site, which caused a state of terror among the Zionist settlers. In addition to the injuries which occurred between them but the Zionists as always hiding its losses and damages. The Brigades added in a military communique that the number of rocket which shelled since 'Al Zaytoon neighborhood massacre' towards the Zionist settlements and the military sites surrounding the Gaza Strip, reached to (160) homemade Qassam rockets, (100) mortars. The communique added that about (66) homemade Qassam rockets were fired at 'Sderot.' The Qassam Brigades announced that its intensive shell to a military site near Gaza fence east of Khanyounis city forced the Zionist forces to evacuate it. The Brigades added that this site was one of the points that monitor the Mujahideen movements, many of the mujahideen were martyred because of this site. Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades called its operation 'Lava Blockade'. The Brigades said that 'These operations are part of the response campaign against the occupation assault on the Gaza Strip, and the continued targeting of innocent Palestinian civilians and their installations in the West Bank, especially the massacre which committed by the Zionists in Al Zaytoon neighborhood.'" ("Lava Blockade: Al Qassam Brigades Fired at the Zionist Settlements '160' Rockets and '100' Mortars During Four Days," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website,, January 20, 2008). January 20, 2008:
January 19, 2008:
Overnight, IDF ground forces, with the assistance of the Air Force, operated against terrorist organizations in launching areas in the northern Gaza Strip. On various occasions during the operation, the forces targeted and identified hitting armed gunmen. Four members of the Hamas terrorist organization opened fire at IDF forces from a building, housing women and children, near Jabalya during an exchange of fire that erupted in the area. The men were armed with AK47 assault rifles and grenades. The wanted Palestinians surrendered and were taken for questioning in Israel by IDF forces along with several other Palestinian suspects. Additionally, in two different incidents overnight, IDF aircrafts attacked and identified hitting armed gunmen. During the day an IDF aircraft attacked and identified hitting a vehicle carrying Qassam rockets and weaponry. ("Summary of IDF Activity in Northern Gaza Overnight," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 19, 2008). January 19, 2008:
Islamic Jihad terror cell, which planned attacks on Israeli civilians, arrested in December Now released for publication: During a joint IDF and ISA operation last month, an Islamic Jihad terrorist cell was arrested and an explosives laboratory was discovered in the region of Nahalin village near Bethlehem. In the laboratory, numerous chemical substances (including 25 kg of Potassium nitrate) used for the manufacture of explosives and an 8kg explosive device with an electronic activation system were discovered. The bomb was ready for use. In addition, a cellular remote activation device was found. The Islamic Jihad cell members involved in the manufacture of explosives in the laboratory were arrested. They admitted that they had planned to plant an explosive device on the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem railroad tracks that passes close to the Bethlehem region. The explosives lab was discovered in the house of the Islamic Jihad operative Razak Muhamad Ahmad Giada, a 28 year-old resident of Nahalin. The other members of the terrorist cell who were involved in the manufacturing of the explosives were also arrested, including Omar Samir Muhamad Hasan, A'zem Ismail Avraham Ma'amar, two 24 year-old residents of Batir and Veluay Mahmud Musa Giada, 21 year-old resident of Nahalin. The cell members admitted during their investigation that they had planned a number of terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians. Aside from the planned attack on the train, the terrorist cell also intended to detonate explosive devices under Israeli vehicles traveling on Route 60 in the Bethlehem region. In addition, they intended to plant an explosive device in order to explode a security vehicle belonging to the Israeli community of Beitar Ilit. They also intended to execute an attack against an IDF vehicle using improvised grenades and then to steal the soldiers' weapons. The members of the Islamic Jihad cell studied the production of explosive devices on the internet, purchased explosive materials and attempted to raise finances in order to execute the attacks. The arrest of the terrorist cell attests to the continued attempts by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization to execute attacks against Israeli civilians. ("Islamic Jihad Terrorist Cell Arrested in December," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 19, 2008). January 18, 2008:
BAE Systems will develop an interim all-quadrant defensive weapon system for the CV-22 Osprey aircraft. The contract awarded by the U.S. Special Operations Command, calls for rapid development, installation, testing, and qualification of a weapon capability that provides defensive fire protection to all quadrants of the aircraft. The belly-mounted system is remotely operated and capable of delivering accurate, sustained fire throughout the CV-22's flight envelope. The contract is valued at $491,000, with a potential value of $16.3 million, including options. "At BAE Systems, we pride ourselves on the work we do to protect those who protect us," said Clark Freise, vice president of defense avionics for BAE Systems in Johnson City, New York. "This system will provide vital protection to this aircraft, its operators, and the Special Operations personnel that it will carry." The weapon system is based on BAE Systems Remote Guardian System, a company-funded effort to develop a common airborne defensive capability. BAE Systems has been investing in the RGS for more than two years and unveiled the system in October 2007 at the Modern Day Marine military exposition in Quantico, Virginia. ("BAE Systems to Provide All-Quadrant Interim Defensive Weapon System for CV-22 Osprey," BAE Systems, January 17, 2008). January 18, 2008:
January 18, 2008:
During a joint IDF and ISA operation this morning, a special IDF force killed Ahmed Muhamad Ibrahim Sanakra, a senior Tanzim terror operative in Nablus. Sanakra, a 21 year-old resident of the Balata refugee camp, was wanted for his activities in the Tanzim terrorist organization. In addition, the force arrested four wanted Tanzim terror operatives. During the operation, the force surrounded the building in which Sanakra and the wanted Palestinians were hiding in. When the force came to arrest Sanakra, the soldiers identified he was armed with an AK47 assault rifle, fired at him, and killed him. Ahmad Sankra, had extensive knowledge in the making of explosives, explosive belts and ammunitions and was involved in planning and executing suicide bombings in the Israeli home front as well as recruiting suicide bombers. Sanakra was responsible as a manufacturer, dispatcher and executor of dozens of shooting attacks against IDF forces in Nablus. In November 2005 he was responsible for wounding an IDF officer when he planted an explosive device in the Balata refugee camp. In addition, in November 2006, Sanakra was injured when he attempted to activate an explosive vehicle against IDF forces. During the past few months Sanakra was preparing an explosive belt to be used in a planned terror attack. During the operation, Senior Tanzim Terrorist Killedthe force also arrested four wanted Tanzim terror operatives from the Balata refugee camp, among them: Yossef Atiya Namer Hanun, 20, a senior assistant of Ahmad Sanakra, Mahmud Hamdan A-Hadi Shtiwi, 20, a prominent operative in the Balata refugee camp since his release from jail in October 2007 and Mahmud Gamil Mahmad Huiti, 21. In the past few days all of the arrested terrorists took part in an attempt to execute a terror attack. This morning the Commander of the Judea and Sameria Division, B.G. Noam Tivon, said to the IDF force which carried out the operation that: "The operation in Nablus throughout the week and today provides quiet and security to the citizens of Israel. The two wanted men who were arrested this week were senior terrorists that the IDF has been trying to arrest for several years. They are responsible for numerous deadly terrorist attacks. The IDF's activity this past week has successfully thwarted terrorist infrastructure which is constantly trying to execute deadly attacks in any way possible." ("Senior Tanzim Terror Operative Killed in Nablus," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 18, 2008). January 18, 2008:
Boeing and partner Science Applications International Corporation, the Lead Systems Integrator for the U.S. Army's Future Combat Systems (FCS) program, announced that the Army has accelerated test schedules for two FCS robotic prototypes based on current readiness levels and positive feedback from soldiers who are using early versions of the systems in Iraq and Afghanistan. Beginning this month, 25 FCS Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle (SUGV) units developed jointly with iRobot Corporation and 11 Class I (Block 0) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) developed jointly with Honeywell will be delivered in increments to Army Evaluation Task Force soldiers at Fort Bliss, Texas. The soldiers will train with the equipment before conducting user testing in the summer. Deliveries will occur between January and June 2008 with testing expected to conclude in September. Based on soldier feedback, a recommendation will be made to senior Army leadership whether to field the platforms or continue with system development under the core FCS program. The 30-pound SUGV is a small, lightweight, soldier-portable unmanned ground vehicle that is capable of conducting military operations in high-risk environments, including urban terrain, tunnels, sewers and caves, without exposing soldiers directly to potential hazards. The Class I (Block 0) UAV, a platoon-level asset and the smaller of the two FCS unmanned vehicle classes, will provide dismounted soldiers with unprecedented reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition capabilities on the battlefield. The Class I UAV can operate in complex urban and jungle terrains with vertical takeoff, hover and landing capability, and can be operated autonomously or controlled by dismounted soldiers. ("Boeing and SAIC Announce Accelerated Testing of FCS Early Prototype Systems," Boeing Press Release, January 17, 2008). January 18, 2008:
BAE Systems has delivered five target detection systems to the U.S. Army for use on Shadow unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). The AURORA Generation IV remote sensing system will provide U.S. forces with precise detection and identification of potential threats, increasing mission capability and survivability. AURORA is an ultra-lightweight, compact, wide-area surveillance system. It combines daytime hyperspectral imaging technology, featuring high-resolution electro-optic sensors, with an airborne processing system to automatically detect and identify targets. "AURORA is the first system that puts hyperspectral technology in operational use for U.S. forces," said John Antoniades, director of remote sensing technologies for BAE Systems. "This is important because the combination of hyperspectral and electro-optic technology offers an objective tool to detect and identify targets, relieving the stress on operators who are constantly watching video imagery." The system is designed to meet tactical needs of unmanned aircraft with highly efficient onboard processing that minimizes bandwidth requirements. AURORA has a real-time processing capability to search for targets and immediately downlink location results to ground operators for rapid delivery into intelligence databases. The AURORA Generation IV system can be used on a wide range of low- and medium-altitude manned or unmanned vehicles that can accommodate payloads as low as 35 pounds. ("BAE Systsems Delivers UAV Target Detection Systems to U.S. Army," BAE Press Release, January 16, 2008). January 18, 2008:
The Israeli MoD confirms the IDF carried out a missile test over Jerusalem (launched from the Palmachim army base). Israel Radio reports that the missile was capable of carrying an "unconventional payload," and quoted unidentified foreign reports as noting that the Jericho III long-range surface-to-surface missile was currently in development. The Israeli MoD: "A successful missile launch was carried out within the framework of examining rocket propulsion..." U.S. Lt. Gen. Henry Obering: "They [Iran] are developing missiles today in an accelerated pace...They're developing ranges of missiles that go far beyond anything they would need in a regional fight, for example, with Israel...Why are they developing missiles today that...will be possible to reach Europe in few years?" ("IDF Successfully Launches Test of Long-Range Missile," Ha'aretz, January 17, 2008; "'Iran Accelerating Missile Development,'" Associated Press, January 16, 2008). January 17, 2008:
The Gaza Division Evacuation Team has been renewing its routine exercises recently. The team will evacuate vehicles, including tanks which were overturned on the battlefield - behind enemy lines - and will also operate in coordination with the medical bodies in the command. Together, they will be able to evacuate injured soldiers when necessary as well as possible. During its operations, the team managed to evacuate dozens of vehicles in complicated scenarios without injury. "The renewal of the team's operations is part of the improvement of the exercises in the division and in improving its battle readiness," said the Southern Command Ordnance Commander, Colonel Zvika Gefen. "The team must evacuate the tank and its occupants quickly, especially when the tank is hit by an anti-tank missile, or by an IED, where there may be casualties. Immediately afterwards, it must bring it back into operation as soon as possible." The team consists of dozens of career NCOs who serve in the Gaza Division, who will be called upon to make the evacuations - the more serious the case, the more people will be called upon. "The team must be familiar with the technical resources it has at its disposal, as well as the threats that it will be faced with...[and] needs to know how to use armored heavy machinery while under fire." Colonel Gefen also noted the importance of cooperation with the medical bodies in the command. "This cooperation is critical, should there be a case in which a tank has overturned and there is an injured soldier as a result; he must be evacuated as quickly as possible and with perfect coordination with the medical bodies, so that no further harm is done to him." The evacuation team was established in 2002, following a case where a soldier was trapped in a tank which had set off an IED and his evacuation became complicated. After the Israeli government left the Gaza Strip about two and a half years ago, the actions of the team have been downsized, and its routine exercises were frozen." We utilized the Search and Rescue Unit of the Home-front Command who taught us and we eventually could teach them in turn," recalled Colonel Gefen. "The resources that are at our disposal are similar to that which the search and rescue unit has, but they know how to handle incidents with cars - not tanks. Therefore, our machinery is heavier." (Rani Sneh, "Gaza Division Evacuation Team Renews Exercises," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 17, 2008). January 17, 2008:
January 17, 2008:
Due to the massive Qassam rocket fire from Gaza targeting Sderot and Israeli communities, the IDF Home Front Command began yesterday to provide reinforcement soldiers in Sderot. Approximately 100 officers and soldiers have been accompanying children to schools and kindergartens this morning and this afternoon. Vehicles are patrolling the city while soldiers are positioned at bus stations and on rides that deliver students to school. In addition, the Home Front Command reinforced the Urban Assistance Center (106) in Sderot. The IDF will continue to assist the residents of Sderot and the residents of communities surrounding the Gaza Strip. ("IDF Home Front Command Reinforcements in Sderot," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 17, 2008). January 17, 2008:
A new report by Natal, the Israel Center for Victims of Terror and War, estimates that between 75 and 94 percent of Sderot children aged 4-18 exhibit symptoms of post-traumatic stress. In addition, 28 percent of adults and 30 percent of children in Sderot suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study was conducted by Dr. Rony Berger, director of Natal's Community Services Department, and Dr. Marc Gelkopf, with the assistance of pollster Dr. Mina Tzemach. (Mijal Grinberg and Eli Ashkenazi, "Study: Most Sderot Kids Exhibit Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms," Ha'aretz, January 17, 2008). January 17, 2008:
President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Nicholas Sarkozy witness the signing of a landmark bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of France. The agreement provides a framework for cooperation between the two countries in the evaluation and potential use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. ("UAE, France Sign Landmark Nuclear Cooperation Agreement," Emirates News Agency-WAM [Accessed on the Gulf in the Media Website], January 15, 2008). January 17, 2008:
The IAF targets a vehicle near the al-Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, killing two PRC operatives. According to the IDF, the vehicle was loaded with weapons and munitions. Palestinian sources note the two belonged to the "weaponry manufacturing array" of the Salah al-Din Brigades (PRC). (Ali Waked, "Gaza: 2 Killed in IDF Airstrike," YnetNews, January 16, 2008). January 16, 2008:
Walid Abid, head of the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization in northern Samaria, was killed during an IDF arrest operation early this morning in the city of Qabatya, south of Jenin. An additional Islamic Jihad terror operative, Ibrahim Fuad Ibrahim Abu-Rob, was arrested as well. Abid was killed during exchanges of fire that erupted after IDF forces arrived at the house where he was staying in order to arrest him. An M16 assault rifle with a telescopic lens was later discovered on his body. Walid Anis Yosef Abid Yalid, a 46 year-old Islamic Jihad terror operative, has been involved in intensive terrorist activity in the Samaria region since the 1980's. From 2004 he was a central figure in the Islamic Jihad which attempted to execute numerous terrorist attacks within Israel. Walid was directly responsible for several murderous suicide bombings, amongst them the planning of the April 2006 suicide bombing in Tel Aviv in which eleven civilians were killed and dozens injured. Walid Abid planned numerous other suicide attacks. Among them, he planned the March 2006 attempted suicide bombing on Route 1. Kafeh Nuahadeh, an Islamic Jihad suicide bomber, traveled to his target on Route 1 with a bag containing explosives that was manufactured by the terrorist organization controlled by Walid Abid. The attack was successfully intercepted at the last minute due to the high alert of security forces and the early warning provided by the Israel Security Agency. In November 2006, another suicide bombing organized by the organization was foiled in Israeli territory when the bomber was arrested and the explosives handed over. Walid Abid, as the head of the Islamic Jihad organization in Jenin, was the "brains" and central planner of the attempted suicide attack in February 2007, when a suicide bomber from Qabatya attempted to detonate a bag full of explosives on a bus in Tel Aviv, but failed due to a technical problem. ("Head of Islamic Jihad in Samaria Killed This Morning," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 16, 2008). January 16, 2008:
Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire at least 40 rockets at southern Israel, causing damage to local kibbutzim. The rockets impact in the Sderot area and south of Ashkelon. Two women suffer from shock and are evacuated to Barzilai Medical Center. Islamic Jihad claims responsibility for the barrage. (Amos Harel, Mijal Grinberg and Avi Issacharoff, "Three Gaza Civilians Killed in IAF Strike as Rockets Pound Southern Israel," Ha'aretz, January 16, 2008). January 16, 2008:
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January 16, 2008:
"Saudi Arabia has not been a true ally in the war on terror or furthering the United States interests in the Middle East. In July of this year, American officials in Iraq said the majority of suicide bombers in Iraq are from Saudi Arabia and that about 45 percent of all foreign fighters are Saudi. Iraqi media reported that students at the Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, located in Riyadh and known as the 'terrorist factory,' had organized activist groups and sent members streaming north to join the onslaught on Iraqi Shias. Brig. General Kevin Bergner, the top American military spokesman in Iraq detailed an account of a Saudi Arabian smuggled into Iraq to be a suicide bomber. Yet Prince Saud was quoted as saying, 'All that we can do in order to protect the border in Iraq we have been doing.'" Full text of Wexler, Weiner Introduce Joint Resolution of Disapproval to Block Bush Sale of Weaponry to Saudi Arabia Here. January 16, 2008:
IDF special forces apprehend Ibrahim Al-Damouni, a PFLP operative in Nablus. Al-Damouni had been wanted for three years. ("Israeli Special Forces Apprehend Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades Member in Nablus," Ma'an News, January 15, 2008). January 16, 2008:
Israeli officials open Sderot bomb shelters after Palestinian terrorists fire 40 rockets and 17 mortar shells. Four civilians, including a 5-year-old girl, sustained shrapnel wounds on Tuesday. Sderot Mayor Moyal notes that the the defense establishment "boosted its forces here in Sderot." (Shmulik Hadad, "Sderot Braces For More Rockets," YnetNews, January 15, 2008). January 16, 2008:
Approximately 60 suspected terrorists are killed and 193 arrested during the first week of Operation Iron Harvest -- a major sweep against Al-Qaeda jihadists in four Iraqi provinces. According to the US military, at least 79 weapons caches consisting of over 10,000 rounds of small arms ammunition, over 2,000 heavy machine gun rounds, over 4,000 pounds (some two tonnes) of home-made explosives and around 100 homemade bombs were seized. ("60 Killed in Anti-Qaeda Sweep in Iraq: US Military," Agence France-Presse, January 16, 2008). January 15, 2008:
"Today, January 15th, 2007, IDF forces including infantry and the Armored Corps, with the assistance of the Air Force, operated in the northern Gaza Strip in order to distance terrorist organizations from the security fence, and in order to prevent Qassam rocket and mortar shell launchings into Israel. Over 15 Palestinian gunmen were hit during the operation. The IDF carried out two aerial attacks against mortar shell launching squads. An additional aerial attack was carried out against a group of armed gunmen traveling in a vehicle. In both instances, the IDF identified hitting the targets. In a number of different instances, IDF forces exchanged fire with armed Palestinian gunmen. During the operation, armed gunmen launched mortar shells and anti tank missiles at IDF forces. No injuries or damage were reported by the forces. Palestinians launched a Qassam rocket this afternoon that hit the city of Ashkelon, causing damage to a road. In addition, a barrage of over eight Qassam rockets hit the city of Sderot this afternoon, lightly wounding five Israeli civilians. One of the Qassam directly hit a residential house in Sderot. Approximately twenty five mortar shells were launched throughout the day. The IDF also carried out an aerial attack against a rocket launching squad in the northern Gaza Strip after they fired rockets into Israel." (Amos Harel, Yuval Azoulai and Avi Issacharoff, "IDF Kills 17 Palestinians in Raids on Gaza City," Ha'aretz, January 15, 2008; Shmulik Hadad, "Grad Missile Lands in Ashkelon Neighborhood," YnetNews, January 15, 2008; YeshaNews, January 15, 2008; Amos Harel, Yuval Azoulai and Avi Issacharoff, "Power Out in Sderot After Rocket Barrage; Four Hurt," Ha'aretz, January 15, 2008; "Summary of IDF Activity in Northern Gaza Today," IDF Spokesperson's Office, January 15, 2008). January 15, 2008:
"Ezzedeen Al Qassam Brigades announced that most of the martyrs are from its members. The Brigades added that the mujahideen were in a mission to defend their land when the Zionist forces tried to invade Al Zaytoon neighborhood. The Brigades announced that between the martyrs Husam Al Zahhar, the son of Hamas leader Mahmoud Zahar. In a statement, Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades mourns the death of the mujahideen, reaffirms the commitment and determination to continue the resistance against the belligerent occupation forces. The Brigades said that the martyrs are: The leader: Hussam Mahmoud Al-Zahar (22 years), Rami Talal Farahat (24 years), The leader: Hussam Mahmoud Al-Zahar (22 years), Rami Talal Farahat (24 years), Ahid Saed Allah Ashoir (24 years), Marwan Sameer Owda (23 years), Mahmoud Atta Abu Laban (22 years), Salima Abid Al-Khalq Mdalal (22 years), Abdullah Al-Haj (23 years), Sakher Salim Zuwayid (27 years), Mahmoud Sabri Hanna (20 years), Mohammed Hejji (20 years), Mustafa Yehiya Salmi (19 years), Mosab Salim Salmi (18 years). Al Qassam Brigades announced that it fired 75 mortars, three RPG missiles, five Qassam rockets at the Zionist forces and clashed with the Zionist war planes." ("Al Qassam Brigades Mourns Fourteen Qassam Members in Al Zaytoon Neighborhood," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, January 15, 2008). January 15, 2008:
US President George W. Bush warns Gulf Arab allies of the threat posed by Iran. "[The Islamic republic] seeks to intimidate its neighbours with missiles and bellicose rhetoric...Iran's actions threaten the security of nations everywhere...So the United States is strengthening our longstanding security commitments with our friends in the Gulf -- and rallying friends around the world to confront this danger before it is too late." Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert warns that all options are open when it comes to keeping Iran from obtaining atomic weapons. WeaponSurvey Note: According to Steven A. Hildreth, a specialist in missile defense and non-proliferation, the Iranian Shahab-3 (a derivative of the North Korean No-Dong 1 ballistic missile) is reportedly capable of achieving a range of 1,000-1,500 kilometers. The Shahab-3A may have a range of 1,500 to 2,500 kilometers and could potentially reach targets throughout the Middle East, Turkey and southern Europe. ("Bush Warns Gulf Arabs of Iran Threat," Agence France-Presse [Accessed on Gulf in the Media Website], January 14, 2008; Mark Lavie, "Israeli PM: All Options Open on Iran," Associated Press, January 14, 2008). January 15, 2008:
The Bush administration notifies Congress that it will offer Saudi Arabia the chance to purchase 900 sophisticated Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) kits, as well related technology and equipment. Administration officials note the total amount of eventual arms sales as part of the Gulf Security Dialogue is estimated at $20 billion. ("Bush Delivers Major Arms Sale on Visit to Saudi Arabia," Associated Press, January 14, 2008). January 15, 2008:
Israel Airports Authority (IAA) inspectors seize two tons of dual-purpose fertilizer, which could potentially be utilized to produce Qassam rockets. The material was detected during a sample check of a humanitarian aid transport vehicle at the Kerem Shalom Crossing. (Yaakov Katz and Shelly Paz, "Rocket-Making Materials Caught at Gaza Border Crossing," Jerusalem Post, January 14, 2008). |
