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Friday, Mar 06, 2026
Outside the box.
Israel deploys new military AI in Gaza war
Israel has implemented AI-powered military technology in the Gaza conflict, marking its first combat usage.
This technology includes AI-enabled weapons sights and autonomous drones, which aim to counter enemy drones and map Hamas's tunnel networks.
Despite bolstering Israel's robust tech industry, which contributed 18 percent to its GDP in 2022, the war has impacted the workforce, with 8% deployed for military service.
Avi Hasson from Startup Nation Central views the war as an opportunity to trial new technologies. However, the ensuing civilian casualties demand increased oversight, according to Mary Wareham from Human Rights Watch, especially with the rising use of advanced military technology causing concern.
A UN resolution backed by over 150 countries highlights challenges related to AI and autonomous weapons systems. Inexpensive drones have redefined modern warfare, with Hamas deploying them in attacks and Israel using innovative means to counter them.
One such Israeli innovation is an AI optic sight by startup Smart Shooter, enabling soldiers to effectively neutralize drones. Another innovation involves using a "friendly" drone to capture hostile drones with a net, humorously dubbed "Angry Birds."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy includes rapid mapping of Hamas's underground tunnels to target the group's operations more effectively.
Despite bolstering Israel's robust tech industry, which contributed 18 percent to its GDP in 2022, the war has impacted the workforce, with 8% deployed for military service.
Avi Hasson from Startup Nation Central views the war as an opportunity to trial new technologies. However, the ensuing civilian casualties demand increased oversight, according to Mary Wareham from Human Rights Watch, especially with the rising use of advanced military technology causing concern.
A UN resolution backed by over 150 countries highlights challenges related to AI and autonomous weapons systems. Inexpensive drones have redefined modern warfare, with Hamas deploying them in attacks and Israel using innovative means to counter them.
One such Israeli innovation is an AI optic sight by startup Smart Shooter, enabling soldiers to effectively neutralize drones. Another innovation involves using a "friendly" drone to capture hostile drones with a net, humorously dubbed "Angry Birds."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy includes rapid mapping of Hamas's underground tunnels to target the group's operations more effectively.
