JERUSALEM - Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers will use a digital map application to replace the paper maps used since the establishment of the state in 1948, the Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported Sunday.

The Israeli military will begin handing out smartphones to squad commanders on which the app, named "Digital Intelligence Assistant," will be installed.

The digital map will make it easier for young commanders aged 18-19 years.

The smartphone map is expected to improve maneuverability, map reading and forces guidance ability.

The new system has recently been successfully piloted in two Israeli army brigades.

The devices will be disconnected from the network for reasons of confidentiality.

The paper maps will not be abandoned but be used for backup in case of failure in mobile devices.