IDF begins construction of six new training bases incorporating lessons from Oct. 7

The Israeli Defense Ministry is undertaking a significant project to build six new training brigade bases across Israel, designed to integrate lessons learned from the October 7th attacks. This initiative directly impacts the training and preparation of all IDF Ground Forces combat units for future challenges and extreme scenarios.

A senior Defense Ministry official stated that the entire training and instruction environment will be transformed. This modernization extends from basic soldier needs, such as improved living quarters with better beds and hot water, to advanced training classrooms equipped with new technology and simulators. The design also incorporates rapid access for tanks and Namer armored personnel carriers to training areas to streamline the process.

Construction is progressing on several fronts. The 7th Brigade's training base in northern Israel, spanning 20,000 square meters, is in advanced stages and will welcome its first recruits in August 2028. The 188th Brigade base in the Jordan Valley is also under construction and slated for delivery in August 2027. The Kfir Brigade base in the Jordan Valley is similarly in advanced construction, with new sections expected in 2028.

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The entire training and instruction environment will change following the establishment of the new training bases, and this will be reflected starting from the basic needs of soldiers, such as the type of beds and hot water in the living quarters, to training classrooms integrated with new technology and simulators.

Other bases are in earlier phases. The Nahal Brigade training base near Tel Arad is in the planning stage, with construction anticipated to begin in the coming months as part of a five-year redevelopment project. The 401st Brigade base will be established next to the IDF Artillery Corps' Shivta training base, with construction expected to commence in 2027.

The Givati Brigade training base, which has faced delays for over 15 years, is currently in the planning stage, with completion projected between 2031 and 2032. Planning for all new bases emphasizes future needs, including covered tank maintenance centers adjacent to living quarters at armored brigade bases and improved access routes for vehicles and personnel to dining halls and living areas, aiming to reduce transit times.

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A rapid access approach for tanks and Namer armored personnel carriers to the training areas has been incorporated in order to streamline the training process.