The IDF this week completed a large-scale naval exercise simulating maritime infiltrations, clashes with terrorists and aerial threats, the IDF said.
Scenarios of seaborne infiltration and clashes rehearsed in naval drill
(Video: IDF)
According to the military, forces rehearsed scenarios including seaborne infiltration attempts, encounters with militants, aerial threats, multi-front combat simulations, live-fire missions, defensive operations and fighting in open waters. The exercise also included defense scenarios for strategic assets such as Israel’s offshore natural gas platforms, seaports and other national infrastructure sites considered vital to the country’s economy and energy supply.
The Navy said it expanded the scope of defensive operations in Israel’s exclusive economic waters during the exercise and practiced responding to a broad range of threats.
To maintain maritime control, the military operates a sea patrol unit and unmanned surface vessels that conduct ongoing surveillance, alongside continuous naval patrols. Forces also question civilian and military vessels and carry out inspections of ships — ranging from yachts and mid-sized boats to cargo ships — while monitoring for unusual activity.
The IDF said it maintains maritime intelligence capabilities and closely tracks developments in the naval arena. Navy officials cited significant intelligence coverage of waters near Israel’s borders as well as more distant areas.
Security officials said a key focus of this week’s exercise was synchronizing the multiple participating forces and improving operational and intelligence precision.
Regarding Gaza, security officials said that since the start of the war, Hamas has suffered severe damage to its naval terror infrastructure, including the loss of senior operatives and facilities built over years. However, they said continued efforts are required to eliminate Hamas’ remaining maritime capabilities.