This page is subject to the extended confirmed restriction related to the Arab-Israeli conflict. Six of the Super Frelon helicopters carried the attack force, which consisted of 64 Sayeret Matkal commandos, with the other two acting in reserve.
Seven of the Bell helicopters were assigned an active role in the mission, with one remaining in reserve. Of the seven, five were to act in support of evacuating the commandos, one was to serve as command center of the operation, and another was to provide support in patrol and transmission. The helicopters rendezvoused 12 kilometers off the Lebanese coast before moving towards Beirut.
A force of 36 commandos was held on standby for quick deployment at Ramat David Airbase in case a rescue mission would have to be carried out. Two A-4 Skyhawk attack aircraft and two Vautour fighter-bombers also orbited to provide air support against any Lebanese military intervention if needed.
Two Nord Noratlas transport aircraft were also deployed to orbit so they could assist with the evacuation afterwards, while another two were deployed for dropping flares, transmission, and maritime rescue. A Boeing was positioned over northern Israel to provide radio relay. A refueling point was established at Betzet Aerodrome for any helicopters in need of it. Anticipating the possibility that the airport could not be secured for an evacuation, an alternative exit by sea was planned.
The Israeli Navy deployed four missile boats and two torpedo boats off the Lebanese coast. One of the torpedo boats had to return to base due to engine trouble, while the rest of the force took positions about 25 kilometers off the Lebanese coast.
