Elbit Systems has secured an $80-million contract with Israel’s Ministry of Defence to develop and install an advanced airborne self-protection suite on the F-16I fleet.
The suite is intended to enhance the Israeli fighter jets’ survivability, as it includes cutting-edge electronic warfare solutions integrated with an advanced electro-optical passive missile warning and launch detection system.
Further details about the deal and technology have not been disclosed.
“We are honored to be once again selected by the Israel Ministry of Defence and the Israeli Air Force to equip the F-16I fleet with our most cutting-edge self-protection suite,” said Oren Sabag, General Manager of Elbit Systems ISTAR & EW.
“In today’s global landscape, safeguarding aerial platforms is crucial. Elbit Systems has cemented its position as a global leader in airborne platform protection, delivering an extensive portfolio of advanced solutions installed onboard various aerial platforms.”
The F-16I
Tel Aviv’s Fighting Falcons were tailored to the Israel Air Force’s (IAF) requirements and primarily produced by Lockheed Martin in collaboration with domestic Israeli defense firms.
Around 50 percent of the F-16I Sufa was developed with locally-made components and systems, which include Israel Aerospace Industries producing its “conformal” fuel tanks for extended range and increased payload capacity.
Elbit Systems supplied crucial avionics, such as a helmet-mounted sight and head-up display, while Rafael armed the fighter jet with advanced weaponry, including the Python 5 infrared-guided air-to-air missile.
The IAF operates more than 300 of these two-seat combat aircraft, deploying them in air strike operations against Hamas targets in Gaza.
