The Maglan Unit is an elite special operations unit of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), tasked with conducting precision missions deep in enemy territory. Operating under the 89th “Oz” Commando Brigade, Maglan specialises in reconnaissance, anti-armour warfare, and the employment of advanced weapons systems. Known for its high level of secrecy and operational reach, the unit is regarded as a critical component of Israel’s special operations architecture, and continues to play key roles in conflicts like Gaza.
Images Sourced From: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit I, IDF Spokesperson’s Unit II, IDF Spokesperson’s Unit III, IDF Spokesperson’s Unit IV, IDF Spokesperson’s Unit V, IDF Spokesperson’s Unit VI
1 Motto, Symbols, Patches
1.1 Motto
“The War is Tomorrow”
This phrase has circulated in association with Maglan as an unofficial motto, reflecting constant readiness for conflict. It appears in unit-linked media and veterans’ accounts, though it is not an official IDF-published motto. [source]
“Silently and safely be valor”
A translation that appears in connection with Maglan insignia and imagery, emphasizing stealth and precision. This has been used in descriptions of the unit’s ethos, but again not in formal doctrine. [source]
“With the sound of confident silence at nightfall, the Maglan of Fire will devour its prey”
This wording has been noted as their anthem, reflecting Maglan’s operational mission as covert and precise. [source, source]
1.2 Symbols
The unit takes its name from the ibis bird, which acts as their primary insignia. The first commander of the unit, Danny Herman, chose the ibis for its adaptability as a migratory bird able to cover long distances. Herman added that the bird “has the ability to camouflage and be modest, and on the other hand, it knows how to find food and is not afraid, even if people are nearby”. [source, source]
1.3 Patches
Maglan’s official insignia features their main symbol of this ibis bird. The patch is usually worn on the left sleeve alongside Oz Brigade insignia. Unlike some IDF units with visible shoulder tabs, Maglan’s insignia remains deliberately understated, reflecting the covert nature of the unit. [source]
Maglan personnel have also worn the unit’s official symbol as a pin in non-combat settings.
2 Organisation
2.1 Place within the Israeli government
2.1.1 Command Structure
Maglan is a Sayeret (special reconnaissance unit), organized under the 89th “Oz” Commando Brigade since 2015. It has its own chain of command within the brigade, but ultimately reports to the IDF’s General Staff. Its internal structure consists of a lieutenant colonel who commands the unit, with company commanders beneath him, followed by platoon commanders, and then team leaders, supported at each level by senior non-commissioned officers.
2.1.2 Operational Structure
Available information on the structure of the unit remains heavily obscure. However, it is assessed to be divided into small, specialised teams capable of independent action behind enemy lines. These teams carry out missions such as:
- Reconnaissance & Surveillance: gathering intelligence deep in hostile areas. [source]
- Anti-Armor & Precision Strike: use of advanced anti-tank and guided munitions. [source]
- Technology & Weapons Development: an internal element focused on adapting and innovating new tools for covert missions. [source, source]
- Maglan has also been reported to maintain a dedicated HALO/HAHO platoon, providing advanced airborne insertion capability for long-range or denied-area infiltration. [source, source]
2.2 Key Figures
Omer Cohen
In 2023, the IDF appointed Cohen as head of the Commando Brigade, overseeing Maglan. In this capacity, he has significant operational oversight of Maglan and the units within the brigade, including during the campaign in Khan Younis and other frontline operations. [source]
Naftali Bennett
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett began his military career in Sayeret Maglan, where he rose to become a commander. He later also served in Sayeret Matkal, and later recalled as a reservist during the 2006 Lebanon War.
One of his earlier actions as a Maglan officer became a subject of significant controversy. While serving as a company commander in Maglan during Operation Grapes of Wrath (1996), Bennett’s unit came under Hezbollah mortar fire near Qana. His call for supporting artillery fire coincided with a barrage that struck a UN compound sheltering civilians, in what became known as the Qana massacre. Subsequently, the incident resulted in a wave of international condemnation and led to the operation prematurely ending. [source, source]
Avi Blut
Major General Avi Blut is one of the most notable commanders to emerge from Sayeret Maglan. He led the unit before going on to command the IDF’s Commando Brigade (Oz Brigade), which unified Maglan with other elite formations. [source]
Yossi Bachar
Bachar led the Maglan unit from 1999 to 2001, commanding operations during the Security Belt Campaign against Hezbollah. He later advanced through senior IDF command roles, including leadership of the Paratroopers Brigade and the Gaza Division. [source]
Tal Russo
Former Commander of the Maglan unit; later IDF Head of the Depth Corps and commander of The Southern Command. [source, source]
2.3 Recruitment
Methods
According to the IDF, Sayeret Maglan recruits through three main pathways. The first is the pre-draft track, where candidates attend Yom-Sayarot (special forces screening). Following this, those who succeed move on to Maglan’s dedicated tryout (gibbush).
The second is via the Paratroopers Brigade, where draftees complete the brigade’s gibbush and can then request an interview for Maglan.
The third route is through lateral intake from other elite-unit selections: candidates who advanced in tracks such as Sayeret Matkal, Shayetet 13, Shaldag 669, or the Air Force’s pilot and naval officer courses but were ultimately released may be reassessed during a special “interviews week.” Israeli media further note that Maglan’s gibbush typically lasts three days, and that two new teams are formed in each draft cycle. [source, source]
Requirements
Candidates must meet strict IDF criteria before attempting the unit’s dedicated selection. Whilst Jewish foreigners are able to enlist in combat units short-term—most often through volunteer frameworks—entry into Israeli special forces such as Maglan as a foreigner is not possible. They must be eligible for ‘Aliyah’, the process of Jews immigrating to Israel and gaining citizenship.
Documented requirements include:
- Jewish heritage
- Israeli citizenship
- Medical profile of 82–97 (combat-eligible), with no disqualifying conditions.
- Kaba (psychometric score) of 60 or higher on IDF cognitive testing.
- Minimal vision limitations; moderate correction (glasses/contacts) may be accepted.
- High reliability and social maturity, assessed through psychological screening and peer evaluations.
- Mandatory security clearance and background investigation prior to acceptance. [source, source, source, source, source]
Training
Maglan’s training pipeline ranks among the longest and most demanding in the IDF, lasting approximately 14-18 months. Firstly, it begins with basic and advanced infantry training under the Paratroopers Brigade, followed by a parachuting qualification course. Once integrated into Maglan, recruits undergo specialized training series in various areas including:
- Camouflage and concealment
- Advanced navigation and long-range patrols
- Reconnaissance and surveillance techniques
- Demolitions and miniature warfare
- Technology-intensive weapons and precision systems [source, source, source, source, source]
3 Equipment
3.2 Weapons
Sayeret Maglan maintains a specialized weapons development division, reflecting its role as the IDF’s deep-strike commando formation. Additionally, the exact systems designed or fielded through this division remain classified and are not documented in open sources. However, given its mandate and placement within the Oz Brigade, Maglan is likely to receive early access to Israel’s most advanced anti-tank and precision systems, particularly the Spike missile family—often referred to as Israel’s “tank killers.” Beyond these glimpses, Maglan’s use of the following equipment has been published in open sources:
Assault Rifles:
Sniper Rifles:
- Barrett M107 [source]
Heavy weapons:
3.2 Vehicles
There is very little available information on the vehicles Maglan uses. Maglan is primarily a deep-penetration reconnaissance and anti-tank commando unit, meaning mobility would likely rely on light vehicles, covert insertion platforms and airlifts over the use of heavy ground vehicles. A vehicle that has commonly been seen in the Maglan unit, however, is the Land Rover Defenders – with many modified to carry the US BMG71 TOW Missile system. [source, source, source]
3.3 Optics
Maglan’s optics profile reflects a balance between indigenous Israeli systems and select foreign imports, especially U.S. equipment, aligning it closely with the kit carried by NATO Tier-1 SOF. Furthermore, the blend of these optics illustrates a unit configured for flexibility across close-quarters and extended-range engagements with a strong emphasis on night-fighting and precision strike integration. We have observed the following:
- Reflex Sights (Meprolight M21/ EOTech type) – mounted on M4A1 carbines and Tavor rifles, NVG-compatible configurations observed. [source, source]
- Magnified Combat Optics (Trijicon ACOG/ Elcan SpecterDR type). [source, source]
- Rail-Mounted Laser Aiming Modules (AN/PEQ-15 ATPIAL or equivalent). [source]
3.4 Armour and Kit
- Ballistic plate carriers sometimes with MOLLE webbing. [source, source]
- Advanced combat helmets- often fitted with NVG shrouds, rails and camouflage covers. [source]
- Night Vision Goggles – dual tube and monocular configurations documented in night imagery, used with helmet mounted IR strobes and rifle-borne IR laser aiming devices. [source]
- Encrypted communications gear – over ear comms headsets, radios whip antennas. [source, source, source]
3.5 Other Important Gear
Sayeret Maglan’s uniforms are broadly in line with IDF Commando Brigade standards, with adaptive use depending on the operation. Furthermore, open source imagery suggests that personal appearance is highly mission dependent, shifting from overt combat gear to stripped down or camouflage patterns during long-range reconnaissance.
- Camoflauge variations – IDF “Eshbal” pattern slowly replacing classic IDF single colour Olive Green, however the latter is still considered heavily in motion. [source, source]
- Helmet scrim, face veils and camouflage nets for concealment. [source, source]
4 Tactical-Operational Information
4.1 Operations
Much of Maglan’s operational record remains classified. Nevertheless, the IDF has released limited material that confirms the unit’s activities, often in obscure or partial form. Clear documentation exists for its key role in both the Lebanon War and successive operations in Gaza. While its operational reach almost certainly extends beyond these arenas, open source information provides some detail of Maglan’s activities in these particular areas.
4.1.1 Lebanon
Reports trace Magla’s establishment to the mid-1980’s as part of Israel’s requirement for covert force able to install listening devices and conduct clandestine reconnaissance in South Lebanon. Open-source visibility of the unit during this period was minimal until 2006.
The Second Lebanon War in 2006 marked the first time Maglan’s presence became public. Israeli reports state the unit was among the first deployed north across the border. Later in the conflict, the unit played a central role in the operation known as “Beach Boys” or the “Second Tyre Operation,” conducted in August 2006. During this operation, Maglan forces reportedly destroyed around 150 targets, including approximately 40 rocket launchers in southern Lebanon. [source, source]
In the years since, Maglan has continued cross-border reconnaissance in Lebanon. IDF communiqués and press reports confirm its role in ongoing deep-penetration surveillance and precision strikes, including the dismantling of a 32-barrel Hezbollah rocket launcher in 2024. [source, source, source]
4.1.2 Palestine
Maglan has played a recurring role in operations in Palestine, namely Gaza. Reports confirmed Maglan’s presence during Operation Protective Edge in 2014, when it carried out precision strikes and supported ground forces. In May 2021, Maglan was again identified as active during Operation Guardian of the Walls, conducting precision targeting missions against infrastructure. [source]
In the current Gaza war, Maglan has played a prominent role, with the IDF publicly releasing imagery confirming its operations. The unit has been involved in precision strikes on observation posts, anti-tank launchers, and tunnel shafts, including the documented use of the Iron Sting guided mortar system against more than 70 targets. Maglan’s teams have also conducted close-quarter raids in dense urban terrain, such as in Khan Younis, where small detachments uncovered and neutralized militants concealed beneath residential floors. [source, source, source, source]
4.1.3 Other locations
Although Maglan’s operations in Syria remain largely obscure, Israeli media have reported that the unit was deployed in the Syrian theatre during the civil war, primarily in reconnaissance and precision-strike roles against Hezbollah and Iranian-linked infrastructure along the Golan Heights frontier. Reporting has also suggested that Maglan personnel were among Israeli forces involved in Scud-hunting missions in western Iraq during the First Gulf War in 1991, though these accounts remain fragmentary and have never been reliably confirmed. [source, source]
4.2 Core Purpose
Maglan Unit’s purpose is to serve the IDF through 3 core functions. Firstly, is to serve as a covert precision-strike asset, executing targeted operations against high value enemy infrastructure and systems. Second is deep penetration special reconnaissance missions. In this way, they hold a key intelligence function, conducting clandestine intelligence collection missions. Third, dedicated to their advanced weapons development division, is technological offensive and defensive innovations. [source]
4.3 Tactics
Maglan’s tactics vary depending on the objective. The designated function of the unit forces their tactics to focus on the following methods:
- Covert special reconnaissance: small teams infiltrating deep into hostile areas. [source]
- Standoff employment: documented use of mortars and other weaponry engaged at range. [source]
- Close quarter combat (CQC): engages in CQC, but is more specialised in Standoff engagements. [source]
- Civilian Disguise: seen by local residents according to media reports. However, this is more linked to the Mista’arvim units. [source]
- Counter-tunnel action: supporting role of exposure and destruction of tunnel shafts. [source]
4.4 Personnel size
The exact headcount of Sayeret Maglan is not publicly disclosed and remains difficult to estimate due to the unit’s covert nature. What is clear, however, is that Maglan typically operates in small, squad-sized teams, reflecting Israeli SOF doctrine of modular, low-signature detachments for reconnaissance and precision strike missions.
5 The Future
Between 2020 and 2025, the IDF has systematically expanded the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into operational planning, reconnaissance, and precision targeting. Maglan, with its dedicated weapons development division, is positioned to adopt these capabilities at pace. The unit’s documented operational patterns indicate a trajectory toward enhanced technological integration, enabling deeper penetration operations, faster target acquisition, and greater independence in contested environments. As AI systems mature within the IDF, Maglan’s role is expected to expand correspondingly, reinforcing its value as a strategic asset for high-risk, behind-the-lines missions. [source]
6 Conclusion
Maglan remains one of the IDF’s most adaptive and technologically oriented special operations units. Any assessment of the unit is significant as it highlights the IDF’s emphasis on combining elite infantry capabilities with technological innovation, a trend that continues to shape Israel’s broader special operations doctrine. Additionally, Maglan’s operations in Gaza and on the Lebanese border place it at the centre of today’s most consequential regional confrontations, further underscoring this importance.