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Based on the successful performance of
Givati in Yemei Teshuva, the IDF land forces command further improved
the concept by creating a more flexible, tactical LIC (Hebrew acronym
YATA) oriented operational unit at the battalion level. A major test
demonstrated the capabilities of the new formation in March 2005.
Designed as a "Swiss Army Knife", Yata will continue to receive more
versatile and advanced weapon systems and technologies, with the
capability to "plug in" other elements and capabilities ranging from
specially trained dogs to tanks and helicopters, similar to Special
Operations teams.
"Although the Yata is a battalion-sized combat formation it will be
equipped with C4ISR assets comparable to what is currently available
at brigade and division levels, providing it with greater freedom of
operation and autonomy" explains Col. Giora Segal, Director of the IDF
Combat Studies Institute. "Sensors and warfighters will be the
principal effectors employed by Yata formations. Network enabled
dismounted warfighters, AFVs, and precision engagement systems,
including snipers and helicopters, will be tasked with missions
against time critical targets in complex engagements. Such elements
will be controlled by forward command elements, where real-time
intelligence, live video feeds and a constantly updated situational
picture enable and empower authorized commanders to take decisive
actions in real time. Lacking such a sophisticated situational view,
such decisions were previously taken at the highest command level, a
time consuming process that often extended beyond the life span of the
target therefore missing many tactical opportunities."
 Among the basic elements already tested with the new unit are infantry
combat suites, comprising the Tavor assault rifle, with an integrated
sight camera, wearable computer and Global Positioning System (GPS)
equipment and rugged Personal Digital Assistants (PDA), which allow
sharing images, messaging, automatic reporting and augment warfighter
situational awareness. Operations in urban terrain and inside
buildings also require new wireless networking facilities, which have
also been demonstrated. YATA units have already tested the new
Skylark
mini UAVs recently procured by the IDF from Elbit Systems.
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