Israel Navy’s first female missile boat commander expected to win further promotions

Lieutenant-Commander R became the Israel Navy’s first female missile boat commander in February. After six months in charge, her performance has reportedly positioned her for further promotions.

The vessel she commands was expected to play a leading role in naval combat operations. The Israel Defense Forces said it had taken part in attacks against the Syrian navy, the killing of Hamas’s political leader in Gaza, and operations against Hezbollah’s aerial threats Unit 127, among other offensive and defensive missions.

The Jerusalem Post reported that the ship continued to conduct high-profile operations under R’s command and successfully complete complex missions. R joined the navy’s commanders course in 2016 and later served as a missile boat deputy commander and commander of a Dvora-class vessel.

Her appointment marked a prominent advance for women in Israel’s combat forces. The navy has seen more female sailors and officers in recent years, but R’s command represented a new level of visibility for women serving in naval combat roles.

Former navy chief Vice Admiral David Saar Salama said in February that R had been selected because of her qualifications, while the IDF also highlighted the advancement of women in combat positions. Her current superiors have since indicated that her continued performance could lead to additional promotions.

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She was the right choice for the role based solely on her qualifications.