This footage, released by the Israeli Defense Force, shows their use of large quad-rotor (also termed “quad-copter”) drones to bomb Hamas militants in the city of Rafah. While official IDF media tends not to show death, casualties are occasionally seen in this video and, therefore, viewer discretion is advised.

Israel has a reputation for hitting low-tech nails with high-tech hammers, and a notable taste for airstrikes. While they have extensively used Predator-type drones to deliver missiles, and smaller man-portable drones to scout buildings, the low-cost delivery system shown here may seem a bit out of the norm. In fact, this sort of quad-rotor drone bombing is a hallmark of the fighting in Ukraine, and recently, Myanmar, countries whose fighters are facing much more significant budgetary restraints. Parts for these drones are comparatively easily 3D-printed or bought off-the shelf, which keeps operating costs low as compared to the types of drones used in previous conflicts. However, given the international outcry against Israel’s continued operations in Rafah, it’s important to note that this may have as much to do with scalability as it does cost- using drones like these allows the IDF to tailor the package to the task, retaining the ability to obliterate Hamas holdings without leveling entire blocks and the civilians potentially therein.

 

About the Author

 

       

     

Cole Simms

     

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

Need a tried-and-tested fixed blade that's trusted by police, military and protective service users all over the world? Cole recommends Ironside Edge Works for your tactical or EDC blade needs.