Ramat David Airbase, located in northern occupied Palestine, has come under fire from Hezbollah since early this morning. As one of Israel’s three primary air force bases, it serves as a critical operational hub for aerial missions, particularly against Lebanon and Syria.
In a bold declaration today, Hezbollah announced its support for the steadfast Palestinian people in Gaza and their courageous resistance. In retaliation for Israel’s repeated aggressions that have resulted in civilian casualties across Lebanon, Hezbollah launched an assault on Ramat David using dozens of Fadi-1 and Fadi-2 missiles. This marked the first of two significant strikes on the base today.
Just two months prior, Hezbollah had released drone footage showcasing Ramat David’s vulnerabilities, indicating that this base, like other vital positions of the occupying regime, is within striking distance of resistance missiles.
Israeli media reported hearing powerful explosions near Ramat David, confirming the impact of Hezbollah’s attacks.
Understanding Ramat David Airbase
Situated 20 kilometers southeast of Haifa, Ramat David is the most remote air force base in northern occupied Palestine. It hosts a variety of military aircraft including fighter jets, drones, and helicopters, with over 8,100 personnel stationed there.
Strategic Importance
The Israeli military website emphasizes Ramat David’s unique role as the only mission-oriented airbase in northern Israel, acting as a primary defender of Israeli airspace. Established in 1941 by the British as part of their air force infrastructure in Palestine, it was intended to replace Haifa’s base after it was bombed during World War II.
Ramat David has participated in all major conflicts involving Israel since its establishment, including the 1967 and 1973 wars and operations against Lebanon and Gaza.
Geographical Positioning
Ramat David is strategically located near the borders with Lebanon and Syria. It lies within a low-lying area surrounded by plateaus and hills, providing natural defensive barriers against potential attacks. The base spans 10.5 square kilometers and features three runways for aircraft operations.
Additionally, it includes underground hangars designed to protect fighter jets from missile strikes while concealing their exact locations. The base also houses specialized training facilities and community amenities for personnel and their families.
Advanced Defense Systems
Ramat David is equipped with advanced air defense systems, including the American-made Patriot missile system and short-range defenses like the Iron Dome. These systems are designed to intercept various aerial threats including ballistic missiles and drones.
In recent months, following Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000, Ramat David has conducted military operations targeting sites in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq. Throughout the ongoing conflict known as “Storm of Al-Aqsa,” resistance groups have repeatedly targeted this strategic airbase.
On April 4, 2024, Iraqi Islamic resistance claimed responsibility for a drone attack on Ramat David, followed by another strike in mid-July. In late July 2024, Hezbollah released an eight-minute video showcasing military infrastructure at Ramat David captured by their drones.
