Israel puts F-35I through its paces with Iran attack in mind
F-35I Adir pictured during its maiden flight in 2016. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
Changes to the Israeli Air Force (IAF) F-35I Adir to make it more effective in any potential attack on Iran were tested earlier this year in a month-long exercise that involved all main branches of the IDF.
F-35Is, F-15s and F-16s practised flying in an area saturated with anti-aircraft and air defence systems. Ground infrastructure simulated the various sensors and EW systems that Israeli intelligence believes are operated by Iran.
Israeli defence analyst Dr Amir Bohbot said ‘everything that has been simulated can be performed today’.
During the exercise, official sources said, the IAF performed a ‘great number’ of simulated attacks
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
AFA 2026: Swarm Aero eyes 2027 Gamera flight as Textron/Merlin reveal SkyCourier UX
Two new uncrewed aircraft concepts target very different US military requirements, from massed long-range strike to autonomous logistics. Shephard spoke with executives from Swarm Aero, Textron Aviation and Merlin Labs at this year's AFA Air, Space and Cyber conference to learn more about their capabilities.
-
Could the next UAS market boom take place beyond the battlefield?
While the headlines remain dominated by the use of drones for combat operations in Ukraine and other conflicts, there are emerging use cases where the technology could usefully feed back into areas and missions outside the war zone.
-
USAF eyes sensor and weapon upgrades as MH-139A Grey Wolf achieves IOC
The Grey Wolf has entered operational service nearly three years later than originally planned, while new sustainment contracts indicate that some UH-1Ns could remain supported until 2031.
-
Singapore’s interest in GCAP reflects its long-term approach to air power
A potential interest in joining GCAP is indicative of Singapore’s long-term and methodical approach to defence procurement and could benefit its local defence industry.