Israel and Hezbollah Strategy in South Lebanon Conflict

Overview of Hezbollah's Defensive Layers

• Hezbollah has fortified the area near the border with four layers of defense:
  1. First Layer: Tactical defense compartments, close to the border.
  2. Second Layer
  3. Third Layer
  4. Fourth Layer: Command and control centers

Tactical Defense Compartments

• Positioned strategically along the border but spread out to avoid collateral damage.
• Rocket positions are kept separate from defense areas.
• Headquarters: Located behind rocket compartments, responsible for directing troop movements.
• Sector Headquarters: Managing overall operations.

Hezbollah's Military Assets and Tactics

• Light Infantry: Approx. 100,000 soldiers equipped with anti-tank weapons like the Iranian Tant missile.
• Rockets: Vast arsenal, possibly up to 1 million rockets and hundreds of Iranian drones.

Anti-Tank Weapons

• Iranian Tow Missile:
  • Consists of a launch tube, targeting acquisition system, battery-powered source, and coil connection.
  • Gunner maintains crosshairs on target for missile guidance.
  • Warhead: 3.2 kg fragmentation warhead, can penetrate 200 mm of reinforced concrete.

Rockets

• Fajr Rocket:
  • Warhead: 26 kg.
  • Rocket motor with solid fuel system.
  • Can launch 20-40 rockets in 20 seconds; effective against large areas rather than point targets.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drones)

• Surveillance Drones: Scan areas and designate targets.
• One-Way Kamikaze Drones: Rocket-assisted takeoff, capable of striking deep into Israeli territory.
• Shahid Drone: Propeller and jet-powered, used for deep-strike missions.

Israel's Offensive Strategy

Aerial and Naval Assets

• Air Superiority: Use of F-35 and F-16 fighter jets.
  • F-35: Stealth capabilities, equipped with JDAM precision-guided ammunition.
  • F-16: Agile, numerous (362 in service).
• Main Targets: Bunkers, headquarters, and anti-air defense systems.
• Weapons:
  • Laser-Guided Bombs: For high-value targets.
  • Precision-Guided Ammunition: To destroy stationary targets.

Ground Operations

• Special Forces:
  • Inserted into Hezbollah territory for reconnaissance and target designation.
  • Act as forward observers, guiding artillery fire.
• Artillery:
  • Provides prolonged and cost-effective support compared to airstrikes.
  • Nickname: King of battle for continuous fire capability.
• Infantry and Armored Units:
  • Use of Neyar Fighting Vehicles and Marava Tanks.
  • Urban warfare experience from past conflicts.

Hezbollah's Defensive Tactics in Urban Warfare

• Hidden Defending Troops: Observation and surprise elements.
• Fortified Structures: Use of buildings as bunkers.
• Tunnel Networks: Enable ambushes, hit-and-run tactics.

Summary

• Conflict characterized by advanced defensive and offensive strategies.
• Emphasis on technological assets (drones, guided missiles) and tactical advantages (urban warfare, artillery).