Could you share insights on how your experience in the IDF Special Forces shaped your approach to security driving and vehicle-related operations?
Firstly, military service develops your general security perception. You develop an understanding of the situation and constantly train yourself to recognize unusual things. Apart from that the amount of training an organization like the IDF, police, etc. can provide is way higher than what you can do in the private market. When you train with big armored vehicles, it becomes easier to manage the day-to-day vehicles we normally use for EP. Saying this, it’s crucial to understand that your military service is a good step to start your career. If you are not constantly learning and training, you will lose these abilities.
In your time managing security operations globally, how did you adapt vehicle tactics to different regions such as LATAM, MEA, or Asia?
First, there is a standard to maintain regardless of your location. As EPs, we should always pray for the best and get ready for the worst. I am not in favor of the “there is no risk” approach. Obviously, there should be additional training for each location based on its unique challenges. Mexico and Brazil have high crime rates, but driving through a mess in a city like Bangkok or Mumbai is also a challenging thing. Local good people are key!
What role do you believe blinded cars play in mitigating risks during executive protection operations?
First, it gives you a chance to recover if someone attacks/shoots the vehicle. It also removes threats of petty crimes like robberies. Very common in Brazil and Nigeria for instance. It provides another layer of protection. It will be much harder to deal with a properly armored vehicle rather than a soft-skinned one. There is never 100% but by adding layers of security and making things difficult for the attacker, we make them choose other (easier) targets. Saying this, armored vehicle is not immune. It should not make you take down your guard or be less alert.
Can you discuss some of the most effective modifications or technologies used in blinded vehicles for high-risk scenarios?
I think everyone is on the same page about the strength of the armor, however, other things like RUN-FLAT TIRES, Blast Protection, and boasted suitable breaks are not always given enough attention. I saw government vehicles that were converted into armored vehicles that had the same brakes. It obviously can’t bear the extra weight the armoring added.
Could you explain how you approach route planning and vehicle selection to minimize risks for your clients?
In some cases, you want to choose a vehicle that is more low-key approach. Some vehicles can be targeted as they are known to be used by expats. Some vehicles can draw unnecessary attention. I was on a detail a couple of years ago when tension against some government officials was skyrocketing in Israel. Driving in a convoy with 3 black Mercedes, made protesters think that we were government officials.. changing a vehicle or two to white or other colors could help there. But risk is one element when choosing a vehicle and routes for a task. For instance, driving in a condensed city like TLV with its narrow street in a big vehicle like a Mercedes Sprinter can be a problem. If you need to park in an underground parking, a tall SUV may not be able to enter.
How do you prepare drivers and security teams for emergency situations, such as ambushes or vehicle-related attacks?
Risk is one element when choosing a vehicle and routes for a task. For instance, iTRAINING TRAINING TRAINING and building their awareness to always look for threats.’
About Daniel Weil: Daniel Started his way in the security sector over 18 years ago when he joined the IDF Special Forces elite unit Dovdevan, which specializing in undercover counter-terror operations.
During his service, Daniel participated in dozens of operations in the battle against terror. His team won the General-Major decoration award for arresting the most wanted terrorists at the time.
After 5 years in the Israeli Special Forces, Daniel started his path in the private security industry working with MNC and VIP clients. Daniel relocated to various countries to manage assets and lead the security ops for high-net-worth families. During his time abroad he gained experience in different countries around LATAM, MEA, Asia and Europe.
After working around the globe for 6 years, Daniel joined SCS as the Operations Manager to manage the company’s international Crisis management and EP ops. After 3 years as the Global Operations Manager, he became the company’s CEO.
