The Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) recently signed a substantial contract worth USD $50 million with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Defense to upgrade the Sri Lankan Air Force. The deal encompasses revamping the air force’s basic avionics with advanced 4+ generation fighter aircraft avionics, communication systems, sensors, and new elements. The upgrade project will also include knowledge and skill transfer to Sri Lankan Air Force personnel. These upgrades will be carried out in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Air Force and at their local facilities.
The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) had previously acquired six Kfir C.2s and a single TC.2 in 1995-1996. Subsequently, they had four more C.2s and four C.7s in 2000. Currently, SLAF operates two TC.2s, two C.7s, and six C.2s from the No. 10 “Fighter” Squadron. These aircraft played a pivotal role in various operations against the LTTE rebels during the Sri Lankan Civil War. Notably, two Kfir C.7s were destroyed in an LTTE attack on SLAF Katunayake airbase, part of Bandaranaike International Airport, on July 24, 2001. These losses were not due to aerial combat.
Yossi Melamed, the Executive VP and GM of IAI’s Aviation Group, expressed his satisfaction with the deal, particularly highlighting the Kfir’s capabilities in adapting to new technologies. He emphasized the importance of this upgrade in preparing the Kfir for its Multi-Role Combat Aircraft role in the Sri Lankan Air Force.
The Israel Aerospace Industries Kfir Multi-Role Combat Aircraft
The Israel Aerospace Industries Kfir (Lion Cub) is an Israeli all-weather, multi-role combat aircraft based on the French Dassault Mirage 5, incorporating Israeli avionics and an Israeli-built version of the General Electric J79 turbojet engine. The project that would eventually lead to the Kfir was initiated by the Israeli Air Force (IAF). The only airframes in existence today that flew under this unique project are the two Kfir C.2s shot down by Syrian MiG-21s on June 27, 1979.
The Kfir, when first developed, was a game changer on the battlefield with its ability to carry heavy armament, and its reach extended beyond its adversaries with its superior agility and maneuverability. The decision to upgrade the aircraft is crucial in preparing it for adapting to the requirements of the Dassault Mirage IIIC to the specific requirements of the Israeli Air Force. The project is a testament to the exceptional capabilities that the Kfir offers, particularly in preparing for future engagements in the Colomboian Air Force. In 2012 and 2018, the Colomboian Air Force’s Kfir fleet participated in the United States Red Flag exercises, alongside the U.S. Air Force and other air forces. The Kfir displayed exceptional capabilities during the exercise.
IAI’s Aviation Group has decades of experience in upgrading military and commercial aircraft, avionics, structural assemblies, MRO, conversion of passenger airplane platforms to cargo carriers, etc. The group’s customers include air forces, airlines, and more, including the Israel Air Force, U.S. Air Force, Sri Lanka Air Force, Colombian Air Force, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and more.
In conclusion, the Israel Aerospace Industries’ Kfir Multi-Role Combat Aircraft continues to evolve and meet the demands of modern warfare. This recent contract with the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defense is a testament to the Kfir’s adaptability and its continued contribution to the defense capabilities of Sri Lanka.
