Ro'im Rachok
Ro'im Rachok is an intelligence unit of the Israel Defense Forces that specifically recruits teenagers on the autism spectrum to analyze aerial and satellite photographs. The unit is often referred to as "Unit 9900". Today, the program has roughly 50 individuals.[1]
History
Ro'im Rachok was founded in 2012 by two former Mossad agents who realized that certain individuals on the autism spectrum could be unusually skilled at spending long hours analyzing aerial reconnaissance photographs.[2] In addition to its military benefits, there are social benefits to the program. Military service is mandatory in Israel for almost all citizens, but teenagers on the autism spectrum are exempt.[3] This poses a barrier to advancement in their lives as military service is a significant step in Israeli society for young men, both symbolically as well as professionally.
Now, the military increasingly looks at individuals with High-functioning autism and gives them the option to enlist in training without forcing them to remain enlisted for the standard three years.[4] When enrolled, individuals go through three months of training at Ono Academic College. Once training is complete, the individuals are given the option to enlist in the intelligence unit for one year with an option at the end of that year to continue for another year. The soldiers often serve as technicians in areas of software maintenance or observing satellite imagery. When enlisted, the soldiers are accompanied by a therapist as well as a psychologist for their own benefit as well as to accommodate for some social barriers their commanders and colleagues may encounter.[4]
The program also helps to prepare young adults with autism for their futures with training on how to deal with challenging situations related to their civilian life such as public transportation. The unit also helps to prepare people for future careers in technological fields and careers. Unit 9900 aims to utilize skills people on the autisms spectrum exhibit, as well as end stigma surrounding autism.[3]
References
- ^ "Soldiers with autism take on key roles in IDF". The Times of Israel. Retrieved 2016-03-17.
- ^ http://www.timesofisrael.com/soldiers-with-autism-give-army-rare-view-into-intel-and-disorder/
- ^ a b Rubin, Shira. "The Israeli Army Unit That Recruits Teens With Autism". The Atlantic. Retrieved 2016-03-17.
- ^ a b "For autistic soldiers, army service opens door to integration". The Times of Israel. Retrieved 2016-03-17.