Intelligence Corps Satellite Center Unit 9900 Operations Flight

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unit_9900

• The “Operation Flight” pin in the picture belongs to the Satellite Center (Unit 9900) of the Intelligence Corps. Although it is a unit of the Intelligence Directorate, it does operate in a “language” and organizational culture that draws deep inspiration from the Air Force.
• Here is an expansion on the reasons and expressions for this effect:
• .1. Similarity in the mission: “A squadron without aircraft”
• The main reason for the effect is the nature of the work. Operating a satellite is very similar to operating a remotely piloted aircraft:
• • Mission planning: Just like in a squadron, there is an “operational command” for each satellite’s passage over a target. A route, shooting times, and angles need to be planned.
• • Operations Flight: The concept was taken from the Air Force because the role is the same – the body responsible for operational coordination, the assignment of personnel to shifts (the “BOK”), and the management of the “flight” (the satellite’s passage) in real time.
• .2. External and cultural characteristics
• The unit adopted codes that aim to create “unit pride” similar to that of air crews:

·        Flight suits: Satellite operations and control personnel wear overalls (usually dark blue or green). The overalls are not just an item of clothing, but a symbol of operational status and connection to cutting-edge technology.·        • Terminology: Terms such as “takeoff time” (satellite entry into reception range), “airborne malfunctions”, “operational investigation” in the Air Force format are used, and even wing pins (like the one in the picture) that resemble air support staff pins.·        .3. Tight work interfaces·        Satellites are the Air Force’s main information provider for attack planning. The daily contact between satellite officers and Air Force control officers has created a “leakage” of work norms. The IDF understood that linking the satellite unit to the Air Force’s work model improves operational accuracy and professionalism.·        .4. The emblem / pin·        Here too, the clear integration with the Air Force can be seen:·        • The wings: A classic motif of the Air Force.·        • The satellite (at the top): The unit’s “aircraft”.·        • The globe: Symbolizes the unit’s ability to reach any point in the world from space.