IAF: The Operational Component
The operational squadrons perform the missions that give teeth to the concepts air defense and strategic deterrence. Spearheading these forces are the aircrews who operate state-of-the-art weapons systems with precision accuracy.
The fighter forces include versatile aircraft, capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. These include updated models of F-16 and F-15 fighters. Local ingenuity has helped improve these formidable fighters as well as the F4 Phantom 2000, which will fly into the next century thanks to an intensive renovation program at the IAI.
Attack helicopters such as the AH-64 Apache, Hughes Defender and AH-1 Cobra add a new dimension to the land battle. Sikorsky and Bell helicopters transport troops and equipment while performing assault, medevac and rescue missions in both war and peace.
The transport fleet includes the Boeing 707 and Hercules C-130 aircraft (capable of airlift, refueling and other jobs) as well as the locally produced Arava short take off and landing (STOL) transport.
IDF