The IDF this week for the first time deployed its advanced 'Ro'em' artillery battery against Hezbollah targets, featuring autonomous loading, precise multi-angle fire and rapid repositioning, allowing sustained fire with reduced crew strainThe IDF’s first advanced “Ro’em” artillery battery underwent its initial operational use this week, with officials in the Artillery Corps expressing strong satisfaction with the results. The system, developed over six years by the military and Elbit Systems, incorporates advanced technology and artificial intelligence, making it more powerful, faster and more precise than its predecessor.The system was deployed against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, and its performance is expected to accelerate the IDF’s plans to expand procurement, eventually replacing the older US-made “Doher” artillery systems.8 shells per minute: the Ro’em in action (Video: Courtesy of Elbit)The Ro’em can fire up to eight shells per minute — four times the rate of its predecessor — and has a range of 40 kilometers, roughly double that of the Doher. It carries a magazine of 40 shells and requires a crew of just three, operating from within a control vehicle.Its key innovation lies in its AI capabilities: the operator or commander designates a target, and the system autonomously loads the shell, aims precisely and fires. It is also connected to military data systems and can receive targets directly from intelligence sources or command centers.“We carried out the first operational fire this week using the Ro’em, targeting Hezbollah positions that had launched attacks on our forces and the home front,” said Lt. Col. B., head of the Ro’em branch. “It was a major success. The fire we conducted significantly advances the system’s capabilities and its integration into the Artillery Corps. This is history in the making after 50 years of waiting.”Lt. T., commander of the Ro’em battery, said the system exceeded expectations. “Despite limited familiarity, it performed excellently and delivered results. We learned a great deal about how to integrate it into operational frameworks and even developed new approaches for maneuvering forces, including firing protocols and rates tailored to operational needs.”The military plans to convert Doher battalions to the new system, though no timeline has been provided. The transition is being carried out at the Tze’elim base, with the Ro’em branch overseeing training, doctrine development and testing in coordination with the IDF’s weapons development units and Elbit.4 View gallery ‘Does more with less’: the Ro’em Asked whether the Artillery Corps would struggle to part with the Doher, Lt. T. said: “I commanded a Doher crew and know the system well. There are many things the Ro’em can do that the Doher is far behind in — both operationally and technologically. This week was a significant opportunity to learn the system, and it moved us much closer to full operational capability.”Lt. Col. B. added that while the Doher