Description

This minifigure pays tribute to the Israeli Armoured Corps, a force that has played a decisive role in the defense and survival of Israel since its founding in 1948. Known in Hebrew as Heil HaShiryon, the Armoured Corps is often considered the backbone of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), combining the speed, protection, and firepower of tanks with the strategic doctrine of mobility and decisive strikes.

The earliest years of Israel’s military history were marked by improvisation, as the young state relied on refurbished and captured tanks from World War II, such as the Sherman, Cromwell, and even German Panzer IVs purchased from Czechoslovakia. By the Six-Day War of 1967, the Armoured Corps had become Israel’s primary offensive weapon. In that war, Israeli tank crews spearheaded lightning-fast operations across the Sinai, West Bank, and Golan Heights, defeating numerically superior Arab forces through superior tactics, communication, and crew training.

During the Yom Kippur War of 1973, Israeli tank operators faced one of their greatest trials. Vast Egyptian and Syrian forces launched a surprise attack across the Suez Canal and Golan Heights. Outnumbered, Israeli tankers fought desperate defensive battles, often holding the line with just a handful of vehicles until reinforcements could arrive. These actions, sometimes referred to as the “Battle of the Tanks,” cemented their reputation for resilience and determination.

Modern Israeli armoured units are best known for operating the Merkava main battle tank, a domestically designed vehicle optimized for crew survivability and battlefield adaptability. The Merkava features unique design elements, such as a front-mounted engine to protect the crew, modular armour, and the ability to carry infantry in its rear compartment.

This minifigure captures the essence of the modern Israeli tank operator, wearing a desert camouflage uniform and protective helmet, symbolizing the adaptability and skill that has made the Armoured Corps one of the most respected armoured forces in the world.

Includes 1 minifigure disassembled.

Pcs: 8

Age rating: 14+