Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has announced a series of transformative steps in the IDF’s structure, aimed at optimizing existing manpower, reinforcing border defense systems, and establishing new combat brigades. These moves, based on lessons learned from the recent war, are designed to prepare the IDF for any security challenge and expand its operational capabilities across various domains.
A key component of the plan is the establishment of a new reserve armored brigade, to be named the 500th Brigade. This brigade will be equipped with the IDF’s next-generation tanks, expected to roll off the production line in the coming years. It is slated for full formation within three years and will significantly upgrade the IDF’s reserve armored strength.
In parallel, the IDF will create a new maneuvering infantry brigade named the 261st Brigade. Currently existing only as an emergency wartime formation within the IDF’s Officers Training School (Bahad 1), it will become a separate reserve brigade. The unit will be composed of forces currently serving under Bahad 1 and the Gafen cadet battalion, and will focus on intensive training and readiness for wartime deployment.
The IDF will also complete the formation of the “David Brigades,” made up of reservists who had previously been discharged from service and have now been recalled to help ease the burden on the current reserve system. So far, 10,244 reservists have returned to duty, and the establishment of all battalions is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. These new battalions will be integrated into operational duties to support the broader mission.
Another major element of the plan is the creation of an additional Haredi reserve battalion, which will operate under a new eastern division – the Gilad Division – set to take command of its assigned border sector beginning August 1. At present, the IDF maintains one Haredi battalion (Battalion 941 – Netzach Yehuda) and a Haredi reserve company (“Hashmonaim”). The addition of a second Haredi battalion is expected to expand enlistment opportunities for the Haredi community and increase participation in military service within this population.
Finally, the IDF will establish a new division called the Maneuver Training Division, which will consolidate all of the army’s training brigades. This new division will allow training forces to operate more efficiently and with greater focus across multiple operational arenas.
