Publications

This essay discusses the role of the IDF’s fighter helicopters in Israel’s ongoing war against non-state actors. The essay first discusses the theoretical aspect of deploying aerial forces in a war against non-state actors and the advantages inherent in attack helicopters. The second part of the essay analyses the use of helicopters in armies around the world in this type of warfare, highlighting the IDF’s unique modus operandi, which is discussed in the third part of the essay. The essay’s conclusion is that the IDF does not view attack helicopters as a stand-alone weapons system but rather as another means by which it achieves its operational objective. Many operations undertaken by helicopters can be effected by other forces, but the use of helicopters attains a similar effect at lower risk. Furthermore, helicopters showcase Israel’s technological and operational superiority, which may also result in an effect on public opinion, an aspect of great importance in warfare against non-state actors.