IDF launches new Artificial Intelligence Division 'Bina' aiming to multiply its military power

The IDF has established a new operational-tech division for artificial intelligence, named “Bina,” through the IDF’s C41 and Cyber Defense Directorate, to advance the military’s operations and "turn one tank into hundreds."

“Bina” (Hebrew for “intelligence”) will be led by Brig.-Gen. B. and will consolidate several existing units involved in AI, including Shahar, Matzpen, Mamram, the AI Center of Excellence, and the Software and Information School (Basmach). 

According to Maj.-Gen. Aviad Dagan, head of the directorate, the goal is to build an efficient "machine" for the future, “turn one tank into a hundred tanks” and “one soldier into a hundred fighters.” Dagan, 52, is a former combat pilot who commanded the Hatzerim Airbase and flew operational missions over Iran during the Swords of Iron war. 

The most recent development in the new division is a software tool that transcribes all IDF radio networks in real-time, classifying everything into a database governed by AI. Instead of requiring a status report, Brigade commanders just ask and the system provides an immediate answer.

The “Bina” division is part of an organizational restructuring, including the closure of the Lotem Technology Unit, the IDF’s main software unit and the opening of three new operational divisions, two of which will be headed by female officers with the rank of brigadier general. 

The restructuring followed an extensive review within the Directorate to determine the ideal model for fast-moving global technologies and future challenges. The Iron Swords War brought forth a new “capsule” model that allows each division to independently manage all aspects of its domain, from cyber and AI to cloud and spectrum.

A classified division for spectrum and strategic communications called “Sphera” will also be established, covering advanced communication capabilities across land, sea, air, space, and time zones. The division encompasses several engineering units. The Spectrum Warfare Center was responsible for taking down roughly 25% of drones launched at Israel over the past two years. The “Sphera” division will be commanded by Brig.-Gen. Racheli Dembinsky, the former head of Mamram (the IDF’s Center of Computing and Information Systems).

The Manpower Building Division, also a new unit, will be commanded by Brig.-Gen. Yael Grossman, the former head of Lotem. Its focus will be on strategy, policy and force-building processes across the Directorate’s areas, including digital partnerships within the IDF, the defense industry and international actors. 

The Cyber Defense Division and the Operations Division will continue to operate with more extensive resources.

The C4I and Cyber Defense Directorate was established in 2003 and is responsible for overseeing military and intelligence operations, including cyber defense.