First ultra-Orthodox Air Force Technical Training Center established amid IDF Haredi recruitment push

Against the backdrop of calls for an equal enlistment burden, the IDF Spokesperson's Office announced that a graduation ceremony was held for first-level technician soldiers from the ultra-Orthodox sector.

The graduation ceremony for the Haredi soldiers was held on Tuesday at the Technical Base in Haifa. The course certified the soldiers as Level A Technicians for the Israel Air Force F-16 fighter jet. The technicians will serve at the Technical Training Center (an underground facility) which serves as an operational center for fighter jets in the Air Force (IAF)

The Technical Training Center is situated within the "Scorpion" Squadron (105) at the "Ramat David" base and was established through close collaboration with the Human Resources Department and the "Tzurim" Association. Its creation included unique modifications to the training programs and work environment to accommodate the needs of ultra-Orthodox recruits.

The course was conducted with adjustments to maintain an ultra-Orthodox compatible religious lifestyle, such as separate sleeping arrangements, kosher food, and establishing a synagogue in the underground hangar. 

The 26 graduating technicians will ensure the operational readiness of the aircraft and weapons systems.

This marks the first training course for Level A technicians from the Haredi sector, part of broader IDF initiatives to integrate young Haredi individuals into the military.

IDF Lt.-Col. Einav Ozen-Shemesh stated, “The tasks of the Air Force require excellent, committed, and motivated people throughout the organization. We are committed to making all the necessary adjustments to ensure the readiness of the force for its missions. The Haredi underground hangar is a step that opens the door to anyone who wants to be part of the operational work and make an impact.” 

The exemption of eligible ultra-Orthodox men from compulsory military service has been one of the most contentious issues in modern Israel.

In light of the current conflict in Gaza and the tenuous ceasefire in Israel, which many believe could be easily broken, the need for more soldiers has become increasingly evident.

Earlier this year, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi emphasized that “there is now a clear need” for Haredi soldiers and that every new “ultra-Orthodox battalion decreases the need for the deployment of many thousands of reservists.” 

Many IDF reservists have served multiple duty assignments, especially following the launch of the ground operation in Lebanon.

The country has suffered from the impact of so many reservists being gone from home and work for so many months. 

In June, the Israeli High Court ruled that the government must begin drafting eligible ultra-Orthodox men. So far, the IDF has sent out only a few thousand draft notices, aimed at men who do not engage in full-time studies at a yeshiva. 

If initiatives like the ultra-Orthodox training center prove successful, the IDF could experience a gradual increase in the number of Haredi men willing to enlist.