On February 4, 1997, two Israeli Air Force transport helicopters collided mid-air over northern Israel.
By Hezy Laing
Along with its many successes the IDF has also suffered several painful tragedies.
Here are the most devastating disasters in IDF history, each marked by significant loss of life and national mourning:
1. The Dakar Submarine Disappearance 1968
Casualties: All 69 crew members killed
One of the most tragic and mysterious disasters in Israeli military history was the loss of the INS Dakar, a submarine that vanished January 25, 1968.
All 69 crew members aboard were killed.
The Dakar was a former British T-class submarine (HMS Totem) purchased by Israel and renamed.
It disappeared during its maiden voyage from the UK to Haifa, under unknown circumstances.
The submarine vanished somewhere between Gibraltar and Israel, triggering a massive international search.
For 31 years, its fate remained a mystery.
In 1999, the wreck was finally discovered at a depth of 3,000 meters between Cyprus and Crete.
The exact cause of the sinking remains unknown, though theories include technical failure, collision, or loss of control.
The loss of the Dakar is considered one of the worst naval disasters in Israeli history.
The submarine’s conning tower was salvaged and is now displayed at the Clandestine Immigration and Naval Museum in Haifa.
Families of the fallen received a full report in 2015, though no new findings were revealed.
2. She’ar Yashuv Training Accident – 1974
Casualties: 25 soldiers killed
During a training exercise near the village of She’ar Yashuv, a mortar misfire caused a massive explosion.
Considered one of the worst training accidents in IDF history, it led to major changes in safety protocols and live-fire procedures.
3. Tyre Headquarters Bombings – 1982 & 1983
1982 bombing: 76 Israelis killed. 1983 bombing: 28 Israelis killed.
Muslim suicide bombers targeted IDF and Shin Bet buildings in Tyre, Lebanon.
Initially misattributed to a gas explosion, later investigations confirmed Hezbollah’s involvement.
These bombings were among the worst losses ever for the IDF in Lebanon, and marked the rise of Hezbollah’s suicide tactics.
4. The Helicopter Disaster – 1997
Casualties: 73 IDF soldiers killed
On February 4, 1997, two Israeli Air Force transport helicopters collided mid-air over northern Israel while en route to Lebanon. This remains the deadliest accident in IDF history.
The tragedy shook the nation and led to widespread calls for operational reform and improved safety protocols.
These terrible events are etched into Israel’s collective memory and serve as solemn reminders of the risks faced by those who serve.
