Its mission is multifaceted: from reconnaissance and counterterrorism to medical evacuation and clandestine operations.

By Hezy Laing

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Alpine Unit—known in Hebrew as Yehidat Ha’Alpinistim—is one of the most unique and specialized reserve units in the military.

Stationed primarily around Mount Hermon in northern Israel, this elite group is trained for combat in extreme cold, snow-covered terrain, and mountainous conditions that most other units rarely encounter.

Founded in the early 1980s, the Alpine Unit operates under the 810th Heharim Regional Brigade and the 210th Bashan Division of the Northern Command.

Its mission is multifaceted: from reconnaissance and counterterrorism to medical evacuation and clandestine operations in rugged terrain.

Mount Hermon, often referred to as the “eyes of the country,” is a strategic asset due to its elevation and proximity to the borders with Syria and Lebanon.

Training in the IDF’s Alpine Unit is as intense and specialized as the terrain they protect.

Their training begins with developing immunity and resilience to harsh natural conditions.

Soldiers learn to maneuver in deep snow, cope with freezing temperatures, and operate in low-visibility environments.

This includes mastering the use of snowmobiles, custom snowcats, and specialized gear designed for alpine mobility.

They also train in ski-based combat techniques, including shooting and executing sudden attacks while sliding downhill—skills that are as physically demanding as they are tactically precise.

Many of the reservists in the unit previously served in elite infantry units such as Golani and Egoz before undergoing additional winter training.

Beyond physical endurance, the Alpine Unit emphasizes deep terrain familiarity.

Soldiers spend multiple winters on Mount Hermon, learning every ridge, crevice, and strategic vantage point.

This knowledge is critical for reconnaissance, rapid response, and defensive operations in the region’s unpredictable weather.

The unit’s training also prepares them for clandestine operations, medical evacuations, and long-range patrols in mountainous zones.

Their ability to operate independently in extreme environments makes them a vital asset on Israel’s northern frontier.

In essence, the Alpine Unit is a blend of grit, precision, and environmental mastery—quietly defending Israel’s northern frontier from above the clouds.