IDF deploys new anti-terror system around Gaza

Army upgrades its capabilities in the Gaza region: New system combines
camera, machine gun and enables IDF troops stationed in operations room to
identify and fire at terrorists without risking themselves
Hanan Greenberg YNET Published: 03.24.08, 19:10 / Israel News
www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3523125,00.html

First report: A new system deployed by the IDF in the Gaza-region enables
soldiers stationed in the operations room to fire at Palestinian terrorists
near the Gaza fence, Ynet has learned.

The systems, which are equipped with a camera and a machine gun, enable
soldiers to watch any activity that takes place near the fence and if
necessary to fire at the push of a button. The new system will soon be
officially declared "operational."

In recent months, the IDF Southern Command has integrated the system into
its operational routine and instructed IDF field intelligence troops on
using it. The system was developed by the Israel Armament Development
Authority.

'System not supposed to replace soldiers'

At this time, one system has been deployed north of the Gaza Strip.
Additional systems will be deployed along the fence in the near future.

"The system is not supposed to replace soldiers on the ground, and it won't
replace the need to charge at terrorists when necessary," an IDF official
said.

"We will be able to distinguish between terrorists and innocent civilians,"
another military official said. "We won't fire needlessly, yet at the same
time we are responsible for protecting IDF soldiers."

"Beyond this, through the system we will be able to upgrade our abilities to
identify the enemy and thwart attacks in a more effective manner," he said.

Ever since IDF troops left the Gaza Strip, soldiers were able to thwart
hundreds of attempts to breach the border fence and carry out attacks.
However, IDF officials stress that terror groups are still highly motivated
to carry out attacks, prompting the army to constantly improve its defenses.