The **Israeli Military**, formally known as the **Israel Defense Forces (IDF)**, is the national military of the State of Israel, established in May 1948 following the country's independence. It operates as a unified military force encompassing three main branches: the Israeli Ground Forces, the Israeli Air Force (IAF), and the Israeli Navy[1][2][8]. The IDF is recognized globally for its high level of combat readiness, urban warfare expertise, and technological innovation, consistently ranked among the top 20 military powers worldwide[1]. The IDF’s core mission is to safeguard Israel's sovereignty and security, responding to a complex and often hostile regional environment. It integrates offensive and deterrent capabilities across land, air, and sea, maintaining a Western-aligned approach to warfare that emphasizes adaptability and modernization[1]. The force has a history of engaging in significant operations, including the recent 2025 "Iron Wall" campaign in the West Bank, a large-scale operation targeting militant infrastructure and aimed at preserving freedom of action in contested areas[4]. Technological advancement is a hallmark of the IDF. Current modernization efforts include phasing out older weaponry like the M-16 rifle in favor of advanced Israeli-made firearms such as the IWI Tavor X95, and upgrading armored personnel carriers with models like the Namer APC and the Eitan AFV. The IDF is also investing in futuristic platforms, including a next-generation tank with hybrid propulsion, laser weaponry, and enhanced protection systems like the Trophy active defense system[2]. Furthermore, the IDF employs cutting-edge robotics and unmanned systems, such as the Yahalom unit’s specialized counter-tunnel technology designed to detect and neutralize complex underground networks used by adversaries in Gaza[5]. Elite special forces units, including the renowned Sayeret Matkal, play critical roles in intelligence gathering, counterterrorism, and covert operations, showcasing Israel’s focus on asymmetrical warfare and rapid response capabilities[