Israel's Shaldag Unit Executes 'Operation Deep Layer,' Destroying Iranian Missile Facility in Syria, Killing 14

Jan 2, 2025, 12:45 PM

Israel has confirmed that it conducted a covert commando operation on September 8, 2024, targeting an underground Iranian missile production facility near Maysaf in Syria. The operation, named 'Operation Deep Layer,' involved 120 members of the elite Shaldag unit of the Israeli Air Force. Utilizing four Yasur helicopters among other aircraft, the commandos successfully destroyed the facility, which was part of the Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Center (SSRC) and was used by Iran to manufacture precision-guided missiles for its ally, Hezbollah. The raid, supported by around 70 aircraft and 50 munitions, resulted in the deaths of at least 14 people and injured 43 others. The operation was facilitated by extensive air support, including a short, 18-minute flight time in Syrian airspace, to navigate through Syrian air defenses, which included five major installations around the facility. This operation marks a significant move by Israel to disrupt Iran's weapons production capabilities in Syria.