JERUSALEM (VINnews)-The inaugural group of ultra-Orthodox cadets in the Israel Defense Forces’ Hasmonean Brigade completed the first half of their officers’ course this week, receiving platoon commander pins after intensive training and a 12-kilometer march in the Golan Heights.

The cadets earned their pins on Wednesday, marking a milestone in the IDF’s push to integrate Haredi soldiers into command roles while preserving their religious lifestyle. They will continue training for another four months, including sessions at the Bahad 1 officers’ school in southern Israel, before receiving their ranks and assignments within the Haredi brigade.

The military stated that the course adhered fully to the IDF’s professional standards and included all standard Bahad 1 content, while strictly maintaining the Haredi way of life.

The establishment of the Hasmonean Brigade reflects the IDF’s broader efforts to increase enlistment among ultra-Orthodox men amid ongoing personnel shortages caused by the multi-front war. Officials also aim to demonstrate that military service is compatible with strict religious observance, despite opposition from some leading Haredi rabbis.

This development comes as the IDF continues to expand specialized frameworks designed to accommodate Haredi soldiers’ needs, including kosher standards, Torah study time and separation guidelines.