APCs packed with explosives become key IDF weapon in Gaza war
The IDF’s Southern Command has tripled the use of armored personnel carriers (APCs) during ground maneuvers, but in a new and explosive way.
By AMIR BOHBOT, Jerusalem Post
SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 09:53
In recent days, the IDF has significantly increased its use of explosive-laden armored personnel carriers (APCs), that are composed of older M113 models rigged with explosives, which can also be operated remotely, as part of preparations for a ground maneuver in the heart of Gaza City.
Acting on orders from IDF Southern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor, the deployment of these vehicles has surged, with officers in the field reporting that their usage has tripled. Forces on the ground have testified to the movement of hundreds of these explosive-laden APCs toward the Gaza border.
The aging M113 model has long faced public criticism due to its vulnerability to enemy fire and its maintenance challenges. During Operation Protective Edge in 2014, one such vehicle was struck by an anti-tank missile and set ablaze – an incident that led to the kidnapping of St.-Sgt. Oron Shaul. The tragedy shocked the public and reignited debate over the continued use of these outdated vehicles.
IDF repurposes APCs into offensive weapons
At the onset of the Israel-Hamas War, the IDF’s Technological and Logistics Directorate developed a method to repurpose these APCs into offensive weapons. They are loaded with large quantities of explosives and then transported into terrorist-controlled areas within the Gaza Strip and detonated remotely.
According to engineering officers, the resulting blasts are designed to neutralize explosive devices planted by terrorists, destroy surveillance equipment, and eliminate hostile squads hiding in the vicinity.“This method protects our forces ahead of the ground incursion and enables faster, safer movement,” the officers said.
Over time, additional techniques for operating these vehicles have emerged, ranging from towing them into position to using robots for remote deployment.
More recently, reports have surfaced regarding the development of explosive barrels that can be dropped by the APCs along streets lined with mines and terrorist strongholds, amplifying their destructive impact. The force of these explosions is so intense that they can be heard over 100km. away from the Gaza Strip.
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