First Charedi Underground Aircraft Shelter Opens at Tel Nof Airbase

The IDF opened its first Charedi underground aircraft shelter this week at the Tel Nof Airbase, in a new step aimed at expanding tailored service tracks for Charedi soldiers.

Around 20 Charedi technicians have been assigned to the new framework, where they will work on F-15 fighter jets in the Air Force’s 106th Squadron, known as the Spearhead Squadron.

The soldiers were absorbed into the unit last week after completing around two months of professional training at the Air Force Technical School in Haifa. The program was adapted to their needs and prepared them to serve as first-line aircraft technicians.

Their work at Tel Nof will include routine maintenance, technical support and professional treatment of operational F-15 aircraft, including B, C and D models. These aircraft remain a central part of the Israeli Air Force’s long-range strike and air superiority capabilities.

The new framework is part of a broader IDF effort to increase enlistment numbers in response to operational needs, while expanding existing service tracks and implementing the General Staff’s orders on Charedi service.

According to the army, the goal is to enable meaningful military service while maintaining the soldiers’ Charedi way of life. The IDF said adjustments are being made both during training and during service, while also allowing soldiers to advance into command and officer roles.

Tel Nof, also known as Air Force Base 8, is one of the Israeli Air Force’s major bases and has been at the center of operational activity in recent months. Defense Minister Israel Katz recently visited the base and delivered a message from the F-15 squadron regarding Israel’s ongoing campaign against Iran.

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir also visited Tel Nof and spoke with crews involved in Operation Roaring Lion, saying Israel would continue striking and weakening the terror axis from Tehran to Beirut.

The base has also been mentioned in reports about Iranian missile impacts during recent fighting. The IDF has said that all relevant units maintained operational continuity throughout the campaign.

The opening of the Charedi aircraft shelter is being presented by the army as a practical model for integrating Charedi soldiers into essential technical and operational roles. For the Air Force, it adds trained manpower in a field where maintenance crews are critical to keeping aircraft ready for missions. For the soldiers, it creates a path to serve in a significant role while preserving their religious standards.