IDF’s Hasty Deployment of Israel’s New Eitan APC in Gaza Combat against Hamas Raises Questions on Premature Armor Rollout

Israel’s new Eitan APC has made its debut in combat operations in Gaza against Hamas, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The Eitan, equipped with the latest defense technology, was not scheduled to be operational until next year. However, it has been rushed into battle to support the ongoing siege of Gaza. The IDF released a photo showing the distinctive-looking Eitan armored vehicle in action on November 5. The Eitan APC is a versatile 8×8 wheeled armored personnel carrier designed to replace the aging M113 APCs in service with the Israeli army. It offers high mobility and firepower, incorporating advanced technology from the Merkava tank series and Namer armored vehicles. The Eitan first saw action during the October 7 terrorist attacks on southern Israel by Hamas. It played a crucial role in wiping out a squad of fighters during the battle of Zikim, where an IDF training base was overrun. Soldiers praised the Eitan’s speed and power in engaging terrorists alongside tanks, as well as its ability to break through barriers and assist in evacuations. Lieutenant Yotam, an Eitan commander, highlighted the vehicle’s flexibility, high-level protection, and lethality. The Eitan APC, weighing between 30 and 35 tons, features a modular design and can carry a crew of three and nine soldiers. Its V-shaped hull enhances protection against mines and IEDs, complemented by the Iron Fist active protection system. The vehicle is armed with a 30mm turret, a remote weapon station with a heavy machine gun, and a pintle-mounted machine gun. It can reach speeds over 56 mph. Brig. Gen. Guy Paglin, head of the Defense Ministry’s Armored Vehicles Directorate, emphasized that the development of new weapons allows Israel to replace outdated technologies, providing its soldiers with the best and most advanced defense equipment for all combat scenarios. Israel has been conducting a ground invasion of Gaza and launching intense airstrikes following Hamas’ terror attacks on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, Israel’s campaign has claimed the lives of over 11,000 people, including more than 4,000 children.