One year after the establishment of the Hasmonean Brigade—an IDF combat unit designed for young Haredi men—the military is expanding its opportunities for recruits with the launch of a new elite unit: the Hasmonean Reconnaissance Unit.
To set up the unit, the IDF enlisted veterans of elite units and commandos who will lead the training and planning processes. The new commando unit will adhere strictly to the unique religious framework of the brigade, including daily Torah study, prayer services and culturally appropriate programming.
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Ceremony marking completion of Hasmonean Brigade’s first squad commanders’ course
(Photo: IDF)
The first group of soldiers entering the commando training were part of the brigade’s inaugural draft. After completing their standard training, they were selected for the unit following a screening process conducted a year after their enlistment.
“The training will include counterterrorism, field warfare and advanced combat exercises," an IDF source explained. "The unit will be capable of operating beyond enemy lines in any configuration required. It will also specialize in specific weapon systems that give the IDF an operational advantage.”
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Hasmonean Brigade holds ceremony for first graduating class of squad commanders
(Photo: IDF)
Amid ongoing debates over military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students, the Hasmonean Brigade also marked a milestone last week with the completion of its first squad commanders' course.
The ceremony included senior officers, families and the brigade commander, Lt. Col. A. About 70 soldiers completed the course, which included urban and open-terrain combat, nationwide navigation training and advanced tactical instruction. Some have already seen combat in Gaza.
Ceremony marking completion of Hasmonean Brigade’s first squad commanders’ course
(Video: IDF)
The IDF emphasized that this was the first commanders’ course designed specifically for Haredi recruits, part of a long-term plan to build a Haredi leadership structure with commanders who share the same cultural and religious background as future recruits.