TAL RUSSO

Tal Russo began his career in the Israel Defence Forces in the Air Force, was one of the founders of the Shaldag Unit (air force special operations), and commanded a squad during the 1982 Lebanon War. That same year, he received his officer’s rank and continued to advance up the chain of command, much of it in special forces. Russo’s long and distinguished career culminated in his appointment as a Major General in the Israel Defence Forces. He now serves in the Reserves.

Russo served in various command positions in the IDF, including within Sayeret Matkal and the Nahal Brigade. In the 2006 Lebanon War, he served as Assistant to the Head of the Operations Directorate in special missions and was appointed as the Head of the Operations Directorate later that year. In late 2010, Russo was appointed Commander of the Southern Command, where he oversaw Operation Pillar of Defense before retiring in 2013.

Presently, he is Chairman of the Board of T9Design, a defence/technical textile company and industry leader.

Russo has a B.A. in political science from Haifa University and an M.B.A. from Tel Aviv University.

Updated: December 13, 2021