The Palchan (Breaching and Engineering Company) was established in 1984 as part of the restructured Givati Brigade. Company members undergo specialized training in explosives, equipping them to engage in a wide range of engineering activities, breaching, demolition, and destruction. Since its establishment, the unit has participated in numerous ambushes and special operations as part of its activity in Judea and Samaria, the Gaza Strip, and the security zone in Southern Lebanon.

Soldiers from the unit were awarded the Chief of Southern Command's commendation for their outstanding performance at the Netzarim Junction during the September 2000 outbreak of the Second Intifada.

Commanders of the Palchan throughout its history include Arie Itach, Nir Mokto, Eitan Magal, Avi Borstein, Yuval Weinstein, Sagai Talmai, Tal Sini, Eldad Feld, Yigal Nahum, Ron Ashrov, Ronen Merli, Buni Mazar, Gal Tamir, Dolev Kedar, Itzik Cohen, Tal Hefetz, Eli Gino, Ofer Kaa, Kobi Barael, Beni Meir, Nati Ben Horin, Kobi Ohayon, Eli Toldano, Yonatan Halevi, Lior Liberman, Shmuel Biteran, Ziv Buhanish, and Aviran Alpasi.