Ss x ae ~ VO 7 IIay Cee ia RAD ZONE Fs PUBLICATIONSthe FA6C/D in IAF si begins in 1983. By that time, the F-16A/B Net Hebrew for Hawk) has thoroughly illustrated it's ¥ major aspect of modern aerial fare. From long range strike demonstrated h an octet of FAGA striking he rag ar plant near Baghdat rough attack missions in Southern Lebanon finally the most important aspect: ato ity proven by the remnants of 45 Syrian by F6's during the 1982 campaign. Just as the IAF was the best promotion for the Mirage IC during the 1960s, giving it the “combat proven" seal, the 16 performance in Israeli service was the best advertisement General Dynamics could hope for. In this atmosphere, The F6 wa: al choice for every modern air f : Constant improvement and continuous block by block upgrades is the policy with every ‘modern fighter, and the F6 was no exception, with its MSIP (Multi Stage Improvement lock reached as er new design The C model included numerous improvements, most prominent being the APG68 radar, glass ckpit with two large multi function displays (MFD) replacing former analogue displays, wide- ngle HUD and wall to wall avionics upgrades. The next phase in the MSIP program, the Bloc d engine replacement or upgrading, Tops P-AGC number 309, the last ofthe Peace Marble I ist delivery, makes its frst touch down on Israel soil at Rainat-David on February 9th, 1987 Tewas a rainy day, the fumes and water spraying fx between the man landing gear and the runway. as evident from Above: The F-A6C first tro is seen fon rote from the USA to Israel, ‘accompanied by an F-16A from the First Jet squadron. The First Jet squadron vas the ist new fighter, andthe Knights ofthe Nori followed shortly afterwards. o receive the Left: The IAF frst group of Barak I pilots poses fr the camera near a USAF F-16C during the cncersion course at Hill AFB: Standing from right to left are: Lieutenant D, Captain E, Major Ram Shonu’eli, Lt, Colonel idon Eilat (the first commander of the First Jet squadron during the F-16C era), late Major Yehuda Baoti and Major G. quadroyAbove: The first IAF F-16D, number (02, é being tested in the USA, ‘nrryng a pair of GBU-LS inert rounds and a data link pod. It is accompanied by an Edwards USAF flight test center F-16C with a inilar load. IMi- Aircraft Systems Division Below: The LAF first F-16C, number 301 in ight over the USA, eaerying six AGM-65 maverick rounds, ALQ- 131 ECM pod, 370 gallon fuel tanks ‘nd AIM training missles, This sircraft was later delivered to the TAF Test ad Evaluation squadron Lockheed Martin This was necessary due to stagnation stall problems with the Pratt & Whitney F100200 engine series. The solution was to split the ower plant delivery b neral Electric's F410-GE-100 and P&W with their improved F:100-220, The Peace Marble Il Program The IAF, seeking its next generation fighter for the 1980s, has marked the F16 as its worktorse forthe decades to come, The order for the next Peace Marble program suffered some delays due to the 1982 Lebanon confict, but final, on August 1983 the most costly contract in the history of Israel was signed, withthe IAF ‘ordering 75 F160/D aircraft at the cost of 3.3 billion dollar and General Dynamics committing to reciprocal worth $300 milion from Israel companies such as IA, IMI and other. Under PM I, FA6D were to be delivered and as in previous aircraft, the IAF versions of these aircraft were cifferent from their USAF equivalents. FGA, the extemal differences for the F6C ded: enlarged tail fin containing improved ionics, larger inlet navigation light housings, eight chaff/flare dispensers and larger radar warning receivers mounted behind the radome. In addition, the airframe was strengthened, increasing the maximum take-off 42,300 pounds to 48,000 pounds. This weight increase require gear and usa The F-16D has an even more unique extemal appearance because of the hump extending from behind the way back and past the vertical jing to foreign sources, this hump houses electronic warfare systems made by f larger tres,the Israeli company Elta, replacing the original Lloral AN/ALQ-178 EW system. The IAF was the first F416 user using the two seat D version for non training purposes, sharing the intense work between the pilot and the weapon system officer, or navigator as this position is definded in the IAF. The FA6D version also features an enlarged air intake duct for its GE F110 engine. This modified air intake was required since the mote powerful F110 engine consumed more air than the P&WW F100. It should be noted, however, that IAF Block 30 F:16Cs stil have the smaller inlet. A plan to retrofit all Block 30 C versions with the enlarged intakes was initiated with one © model (tail number 360) actually modified and tested with this inlet, but it was found that there was no significant improvement in engine performance and the program was cancelled. The new PM Il aircraft were given the name k, lightning in Hebrew. The first FAA6C trio arrived on February 9", 1987, intially entering service with the First Jet squadron and later with the Knights of the North squadron, The first F-16D arrived on December 21%, 1987 to serve with the First Fighter squadron. The PM Il transfer flights were coded “Helena Hayafa” (Hebrew for Helen of Troy meaning beautiful Helen) with a serial number added to indicate the transfer progress. This name was used again with the PM Ill aircraft The PM Il program also included the delivery of a ground simulator for the F-16, enabling the IAF to enhance its training ofits Barak pilots. Cancellation of the IAI LAVI Although the IAF was purchasing US manufactured F46s, IAI and the Ministry of Defense were moving ahead in the course ‘outlined with the Sa’ar, Nesher and Kfir and were planning to produce an indigenous Israeli fighter, named Lavi (Hebrew word for Lion The Lavi was to complement the existing F:15 and F.46 fighters and to replace the aging Ad, F-4 and Kfir on the close support and strike ‘6 Top: One ofthe First F-16Cs, number 307 is being towed to its new home on February 9th, 1987 As evident. the pictur, it was a winter del IAF Mag Above right IAI chief test pilot, Menachem Shinal is more than heppy th the new F-AGC. This picture tons taken when the IAT Lavi project, tas stil in development, so he could ‘afford the smile First Jet qu Above lefts Late Itzhak Rabin, Israel's ce minister at the time, i pleased th the IAF new acquiremtent.suber. rnment, the main source d to continue it titor. Three Li ncelled by the Israeli g Even tho me time and the Israeli and actual cancellation cam 0 the FA6, and A substitute is offered The US rael orde under the Peace called itscapability, improved radar, additional RWR the wing’s leading edge, HUD repe forthe navi lights After the Lavi cancel rifted their and many ) and enlarged ort landing gear bay. 9t equipped with th ing intake a raeli Block T PM Ill FA6 arr 1991 and entered service with Fighter and the Scorpion squadron, The gi nulator acquired on PM I impr the Block 40 chang Unlike the northern squadro! First Fighter units, each operating a mix of single seat and two seat aircraft. This of operation is unique to the IAF and doctrines were developed. ncept On the treadmi During 1994 the international community of F.46 operators faced a serious crisis. Problems ith the GE F410 engine were dis simultaneously at different air forces including ove: Peace Marble Ill F-16C TAF carrying a factory applied tal suber and TAF roundels heed Martin Belov: Block 40 F-16D number 612 is seen during its test flights in the USA, ‘witha fesh paint scheme and ALM-9 inert missles. Lockheed MeTops IAF first Peace Marble IIT F-16Cs, nunbers 503 and 502, are seen turing their reception ceremony on ‘August 1991 at Hatzor AFB. Raanan Weiss collection Above lefts IAF commander, Major General Avil Ben-Nun, is making ‘speech on the Peace Marble IIL reception ceremony, Yoav Efrat collection Above right: The First Fighter squadron badge i applied to its new Block 40 F-16C mumber 503. This sircraft was later transferred tothe Sconpion squadron Yoad Efrat collection the Egyptian Ar Force, USAF and the IAF. several crashes following engine failures caused the immediate grounding of Block 40 FA6 units all around the world. The problem also affected the US navy F44D community, which utilize the same engine. In the IAF this meant the Scorpion squadron and the First Fighter squadron had to freeze operations with their Barak Il airframes Lntil the cause of the failure was found. In order to maintain operations, 12 Barak | single seat aircraft were transferred from the Northern squadrons. The tall numbers of these aircraft were: 305, 309, 333, 337, 350, 360, 367, 368, 376, 384, 386 and 389. The aircraft were equally divided between the Scorpions and the First Fighter squadron. After inspecting the F110 engines of crashed airframes, it was found that certain turbine blades disintegrated, causing the immediate failure of the whole engine. After the problem was resolved, the Barak | aircraft returned to their Northern AFB and the Barak Il were back to ‘normal fight operations, Between 1904 and 1995 it was discovered that the strenuous flights with the Barak | on IAF 9 service had its own costs, when cracks were detected in the wing spar and other areas. According to the manufacturer, the cracks were Supposed to appear, but much later during the airframe life. It turned out the strain the IAF pilots put on their aircraft has taken its toll. The same phenomenon was discovered on FA6A Netz airframes, and a series of reinforcements were fitted to all of the Barak | and Netz aircraft ‘As mentioned previously, the Block 40 squadrons are operational with both single seat and two seat aircraft. While this mix of types holds several advantages, it also has some secondary implementations. In the late nineties it was discovered that the Block 40 FA6D airframes accumulated considerably more flying hours than the F16C within the same squadrons. This situation was due to the higher demand for precision and night strike sorties during that period, including operations such as “Accountability” in 1993 and “Grapes of Wrath” during 1996, This kind of sorties are better performed with another pair of eyes, the natural pick being the F-16D. In order toresolve this imbalance, Barak II single seaters were transferred to the northern homogeneous. 416C squadron, in order to match fight hours of the twoseaters. When the fight hours status as balanced these aircraft retuned to thei Parent squadrons. Turning the night into day When introduced to IAF service, the F16D brought with it @ new unique capability: nigh vision integrated with the Aircraft. systems through the LANTIRN pod. The ability to see and designate targets during night time and adverse weather was a quantum leap for the IAF, enabling aroundtheclock operations for the first time. When the ability ofthe LANTIRN, and later the Litening pod, was coupled with the “Journal” night vision goggles, the right ved to day. As part of the night revolution ‘a whole new doctrine for night operations was developed. Apart from singular night training sorties, all of the nightvision equipped IAF squadrons, being the Valley squadron, the Scorpions, the First Fighter squadron and the F451 Hammers squadron, perform a unique Gril called “inverted week”. During such training, a squadron trains regularly, with every daytime activity transferred to the night and vice versa. The day is devoted to sleeping and gaining strength for the nocturnal activity, and when the evening arrives the squadron springs ta life. Every type of mission performed by the F-46 has a new profile when performed during the night, and all of the squadron cadre, pilots, navigators and mechanics find themselves checking and pushing the limits of their capabilities. Extra attention is given to fatigue level and safety. The ground crew double check aircraft and the briefings are even more thorough than the usualg. Such a week is the Left: IAF mechanics perform last ‘minute checks on an SULL20 practice ‘munition dispenser, hanging from the twing of First Jot squadron Barak I This dispenser carries six practice bombs, which sinlate the trajectory of live bombs. The dispenser can also hold practice rockets but this option is not used by the IAE Below: A casual day during the late 1980's at Ramat-David: Fi Jet squadron Barak I number 307 is taxiing while a Haswmers squadron F-AE is making its inal landing approach. The Barak is carrying an empty Triple Ejector Rack (TER) and temal fuel tanksKnight and take jonship which includ and joint exercises. All of d Il squadrons partici gular basis, The Turkis and diverse terrain features, t the missile. 01 issile enable the p AF pilots to experience is launched it uses this information to direc kit that couldn't be ach eli it qui ‘urt Barak Land Hl armament. copbinaton of the Panter mssie a and weapon systems enables the pilot to shoot w 4 During two advanced. weapon systems operational inthe Bi squadrons are capableoperating alm IAF arset guided weapon in nple and reliable dé GBU-15 elect guided bomb, These days, the LANTIRN pods are phaser om the Barak I squadrons and transferred the F451 squadron. The pods are replac fae Litening Il po will be used on the F161 as well. The target esignation ability provided by the Litening is not away y, and in such cases the Pave Penny pad is carried under tk station, on an adapter similar with the USAF Harm Target Seeker ( M two seat Barak aircraft naturally tasked with strike missions, the two Barak rons, the First Jet squadron and th Knights of the North lly focused ‘on the interception and air combat roles. The und strike element was always a secondary ere traditio part of their with the JDAM and operational with these squadrons. These tonomous weapons enable a single pilot to handle gets. simultan a formerly nonexistant capability for the vadrons. Barak numbering system, Colors and standard markings The paint scheme for both Barak | and Il is basically the surfaces with F r surfaces are Grey, with win and radome painted FS36270 Medium Grey. The IAF roundel is ‘applied in 4 positions, above and beneath the wings, and the squadron badge is lovated at the top of the tal and. types Above: IAF early 1990's fist line rs pose for the camera. The li-Lebanese borderline can early between The One 000 number 68 ‘and First Fighter squadron F-16D ‘number 612. Completing the fligh Baz (the IAF nickname for the F-13) inner 109 frm the Kaightsof the Double Tail squadron, IAF Me Below: First Fighter squadron E-16D umber 656 3 seen from its formation’s mate cockpit, ‘missiles ana a 300 gallon belly fuel tank IAF MageKnights of the N FH6C munber 367, ArB. Below: Sonpion tuber 508 and F-16D aeflyng anumbered according to the following system: Block 30 F16C aircraft are numbered using the 3XX range. Block 30 F16D aircraft are numbered using the OXX range. It should be noted that IAF F-16B are also numbered using the same range, so in order not to mix between them, the B variant doesn't exceed the 019, while the D variants numbers start from 020. Block 40 F-16C feature the 5YX range while the FA1GD were allocated the 6XX range. F-161 Sufa ln July 1999, Israel selected the F161 over other competing aircraft, which led to @ contract for 50 F16D Block 52+ signed in January 2000. An option for 52 more aircraft was exercised in 2004. The F-16I, known as the ‘Sufa," or Storm, is specially modified for the Israel Air Force. The aircraft include a number of systems produced by Israeli industry and are powered by the Pratt & Whitney FLOOPW. 229 engine. Amos Yaron, Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, said that the new F-16l “einforces the significant defense pabilty provided by Israel's Air Force, which relies on the F-16 as the backbone of its fighter aircraft fleet” The Peace Marble V aircraft wil be delivered through 2008, Above: Any time and place are good for some push-ups! First Fight rom F-16D munber 603 is seen ‘during IAF deployment to Turkey. The pilot is watching while his navigator ‘andthe growna crew are having a go ‘at the Turkish Tarmac. Note thatthe ‘aircraft is carrying IMI 600 gallon external fuel tanks, TAF Magazine Below: A gathering of Middle East F-t6s, Valley squadron Block 30 F-16D uber O41 is seen with its hosting Turkish squadron Block 40 F-16Cs The IAF F-16 is carrying Rafael’s Litening pod ana 600 gallon tanks.Above: This photo taken during IAF deployment tothe USA. The aircraft any AIM-SD and Python 4 training Right: Photo from the s Aeployment show Valley squadron ier 036 and First i F-16D number 612, of IAF F-A6C/D Blocks and types are sen during their deployinent to the USA. Cli fo the camera isa Block 30 F-16C tuner 388 from the Knights of the North squadron, followes the same type fom the First Jet squadron. Pair of Val Block 30 -16D are in th the formation and the last aircraft Block 40 F-16D from the First F Squadron. Valley squadpr sit yeaa Sits name implies, the First Jet squadron was the first IAF unit t equipped, during the early 1950s, » a jet fighter. The squadron’s first th lets, the British: manufactured Gloster Me 1.7, were received on une 17 David and nicknamed by the young state's prin minister, David Ben-Gurion, “Sufa® and *Sa'ar’ Both represent Hebrew words for storm, the immediate feeling arising when hearing their peculiar jet whistle, These traning aircraft were x joined by the F.8 fighter version and the FR.9 reconnaissance variant in August 1955, the first encounter occurred between the Israeli Meteor fighters and Egyptian Vampire fighters and, eventhough ne of the Meteors shot and hit one of the fampires, which was seen fleeing away with trailing smoke, this first kill was not confirmed. However, the Meteors didn’t need to wait too long for their first confirmed kill. On September 4", 1955 Aharon Yoeli, fling Meteor FR.9 number 36, shot down two EAF Vampires. in mid 1956 the IAF received its first re fighter, which immediately became he IAF primary interceptor. The First Jet squadron Meteors missions were changed to ground attack (with the F.8 and FF and reconnaissance (with the 1.7 variants) Squadron Im April 1962, the First Jet squadron becam the center of attention when they received the Mirage llc fighter, a short period after the First Fighter squadron. Before the SixDay War, the First Jet squadron shot down 3 enemy aircraft. In this 1967 war, the squadron lost 4 Mirages shot d enemy aircraft. During the War of Attrition, the squadron shot down 3: enemy aircraft. The squadron also took par he IDF's antiterrorist activity, such as the Karame operation on March 21°, 1968, when 43 strike and CAP sorties were performed by the squadron Mirages, in 1969 the squadron Mirages took part in the Shafrir Il development program, and it in its service that the missile achieved its frst kill. During the 1973 Yom Kippur War the squadron operated @ mix of Mirage and (Al Nesher fighters, claiming 44.5 enemy aircraft (half Kill is a kill divided between two aircraft fing simultaneously on the same enemy aircraft In October 1979 the last of the squadron's Mirages transferred to the Negev squadron, and only a minimal intercept fight remained active at RamatDavid, operating four IAI Kfir fighters borrowed from the Valley squadron, This fight remained active for a year before it ceased operations. On 11", 1980 Lt. Colonel Ze'ev Raz Below: F-16C number 309 is seen taxing afer its February 9th, 1987, No aircraft arvived delivery fight on that the without winget launchers. The font used by General Dynemies forthe number was 10a di boy the First nt type, used only squadronAbooe: First Jet squadron F-16C uber 315 and 355 are seen during tovair training sorte, IAP luseum Below left: First Jet squadron F-16C number 324i landing on the Haifa TeLAvto highway during 1985 Nonmal car tafic is conducted on theses ofthe ruroay centerline IDF Spokesmai Below right: First Jet squadron F-16C miber 307 is checked after landing tithe highuony. Note the partially pen airbrakes IAF Magazine was appointed the First Jet squadron commander 2 part of the preparation for the IAF brand new fighter; the F-16A Netz (The Hebrew name for Hawk, and the IAF nickname for the F-16A/8) purchased under the Peace Marble | program. On July 2°, 1980 the first quartet of F-16, were received by the squadron and in November 1980 the squadron reached operational readiness. The early 80's were an exciting period for the squadron with lots of frsttime events, On April, 28°, 1981 the squadron ground crew could paint the world’s first kill mark on an F-16. A Syrian IMik8 helicopter fying over southern Lebanon fell prey to Netz number 112, flown by Lieutenant Raff. In June 1981 four of the squadron F-16s, together with four Knights of the North F.6s, destroyed the Iraqi Osirak nuclear reactor. During the 1982 Lebanon war the squadron’ Netz fighters shot down 24 Syrian aircraft. In November 1986, the squadron transferred its F-16A/B to the Negev squadron and started preparing for the new Block 30 F-16C Barak. The squadron's first Barak trio arrived on February 9°, 1987. These three aircraft were given the following tail numbers: 305, 307 and 309. The aircraft were checked, minor changes were made to accommodate them for IAF service and on February 17°, a pair (tail numbers 307, 9) took off for the first IAF F16C fight. On March 19°, 1987, an additional six aircraft arrived (tail numbers: 304, 310, 345, 347 318, 324) accompanied by a pair of F16AS from the Knights of the North squadron The rest of the aircraft kept artving on ‘a monthly basis and in September 1987 the squadron received its last F166 Like the other IAF squadrons, the First Jet squadron maintained a high alert level during the 1991 guif war, with its airraft standing armed for a possible strike in Iraq and fying constant CAP, guarding Israel airspace. During the 1993 operation “Accountability” the squadron performed 41. CAP and 22 ground ck sorties. In 1995, the squadron participated in a unique training sortie. During wartime, apart from its petmanent airbases, the IAF operates aircraft from emergency landing strips, as wel One of these strips is located on the northern part of the Tel Aviv Haifa highway, near Atit. A section of the road was specially designed to enable fighter aircraft to and. On the night of May 17°, this special road segment was closed for ground traffic and was quickly prepared for landing of aircraft. Four of the squadron F-16s took off from RamatDavid and practiced fake landing approaches on this strg. Later on, two of the aircraft actually landed. it tured out that the ground crew brought everything needed to handle the F16s, except fo a... cockpt ladder.Above First Jt squadron F-16D is photographed during This aircraft the Valleys tas later transfered t and crashed iuce the heat generat iframe and t sortie was mmediately to base. The aircraft was repaired . 077, First Jet squadron, 1989 18Right First Jot squadron F-16C snber 45 i taking-off to an tirta-ir training sortie, The silver lightning zs applied to the squatow's airraft shortly aftr the reception of the F-16C Ratnan Weiss col Below lft: Firs Jet squadron GC munber 38 during air-to-air tnuining. The aivraft carries tio AIMGOL and two 370 gallon external fuel tanks. Raranan Weiss Above right: trio of First Jet sundron F-16C's daring a training fight The aircraft carry taining AIMOL painted in fixorescent red, inorle to ease identification during tirto-air combat raining. Raianan Weiss collection Below: First Jet squadron F-16C sumer 324 is fying above northern Isael, carrying a single 300 gallon telly tank: First Jet squadron that a pin on the left landing gear apparatus had snapped and prevented the landing gear from extending. The aircraft was quickly repaired and relumned to service On February 24”, 2003 Berak number 310 suffered an engine failure while approaching RamatDavid for landing, When it was clear to the pilot that the aircraft couldn't make it to the runway, he eected and landed safely. During 2003 the squadron received a formidable weapon system, the Rafael “Spice This revolutionary weapon uses both electro optical identification and GPS guidance for autonomous direction. This bomb is capable of identifying its target by comparing its image to a set of images stored in its memory, The uidance head can be loaded with dozens of target images and, once in the air, the bomb can identify the target without aircrew intervention. In the next phase, the bomb plans its trajectory and provides the pilot guidance cues so he could fl the aircraft in the appropriate manner. Since the Spice is totally independent, several bombs can be aimed at different targets simultaneously, relieving the pilot or navigator from the need to designate the target while the bomb is airbome, The First Jet squadron is in charge of developing operational methods and instructing the other IAF Barak squadrons about this weapon system. The First Jet squadron, which was always a leader in the alrtoair arena, is now also the owner of a powerful strike asset, making it one of the central pillars of the IAFAbove: First Jet squadron F-16C ‘number 340 prepares for take-off with ‘heavy weapon load, consisting of four Mk:84 2000 Ib. bombs, 300 gallon fuel tank and a pair of live AIM-9L ‘missiles, The photo toas taker during the 1993 operation “Accountabilit If the First Jet sq cen in 1991 during d. The aircraft is armed for long range strike with four MK.84 2000 Ib bo ig fl 5 belly tak. All TAF ks on immediate in Iraq d Raia g this period, Below: Firs Jt squadron F-16C nuber 307 is seen tasting with inert AIM. iss 20Above: F-A6C number 356 is back in bsiness after ts repair tuilisadorned with a larg David and the aircraft is carrying a Python training Right: First Jot squadron fight line tit P-16C munber 145 closest to the tuner. The airraft is carrying AIM- SLinissles and 600 gallon external fuel tons Ralanan Weiss collectionnL four Mk.s4 2000 I, bon AIM. misAbove The pilot of First Je F-16C number 310 is about to engag full throttle and take-off. This ireaft crashed on February 2003 due to.an engine flue IAP Magazine Right: F-16C number 310 is about to. Tad at its base. IAF Magazine Below: The remnants of F-16C umber 310 shortly after its crash F-16C Block 30 No. 307, First Jet squadron, 2003 M in its MkAbove: This inp First Jet squadron F ve photo shows 5C number 35 David, Note pensers behind TAP Block 30 the eight chafflare the wing, typical to. F-16C/D models inthe Valley squa reopened on 19 ber 348 during static display David airbase. The rane, nicknamed came is foage capabilityRig The IAF and USAF train fagetheron a regular basis. This phat captures First Jet squadron FA6C number 355 with « 144" fighter iting Block 12 F-16C, belonging t Galiforie Air National Guard Blows Firs et squadron F-16Cs i nner 355 and 348 ae preparing {ostt ou foram air-to-air training sortiy during on IAF deployment to {He USA. The aircraft carry AIM-9D and pthon 4 missiles. FAC Block 30 No.333, First Jet squadron, 2003 27rainfed coy Cie Peano he Knights of the North squadron was formed @s a Mosquito squadron in 1953 and was active with this ty end of the 1956 campaign. In mid vadro lipped with the bombers. The squadron was the only operator of the Vau ye other than perated the nigh i aircraft (designated |IN) Following receipt of the Mirage IlIC in night-fighters were transferred to the Knights of the North squadron, The Vautour was phased ‘out during 1971, and the squadron re AE fighters that were previously the US N US Marine C these aircraft were joined by the ved from the Valley squadron, whi time was taking the Kfir in at the ere introdu together with its sister squadtor i, the First Jet squadron, June 1981, eight aircraft from 5 took off from Etzion AFB, lo and, after @ tedious flight, ea at de 0 Mk.84 bombs into the heart of the Osirak lragi nuclear reactor near Baghdad, which was in its final Squadron During the 1982 Lebi squadron's F.16 fighters shot down 22 raft. Seven of these kills were the squadron commander, Lt. Colonel Am Nachumi, adding to the 7 kills he achieved flying the F-4 In 1987, the squadron was chos 30 FA6C, along wit The squadron's fist sé RamatDavid on July 30th, 1987 tail numbers 368 Knights of the North to operate the Bi the Fist Jet squad (the aircrat 374, 373, Above: Knights ofthe North squadron F-16C number 397 is ready for take-off with a par from the same squadron in the distance. The ate in “clean” configu Below: F-16C mber 392 was ove ofthe last aircraft arriving tothe Knights of the North squadronAbooe: Knights ofthe North squadron F-16C number 388 lands drag 2 squadron deployment to (Ova AFB, during 1998. The aircraft fares python 4 and AIM. training tnssiles. Note the different shades of the canopy sections IAP Magazine 374, 377) and, on the second day of August, the squadron started routine fights with this type. The squadron’s former aircraft, the F16A/B was transferred to the Negev squadron and the Golden Eagle squadron, During these transitions the squadron aircraft were given a unique design, applied to the aircraft tail. This design was in the form of an eagle's head, using the standard camouflage colors of sand and brown, and the squadron badge as the eagle's eye. Also, the tail fin received a black rectangle, crossed by a siher lightning bot. The fist operational strike of the F-16C in the service of the IAF took place on April 22nd, 1988. Two of the squadron's aircraft, together with four F:16Cs from the First Jet squadron, attacked a command center and ammunition dumps of the Ahmad Gibril terrorist organization. ‘These sites were in the region of Damour, north of Sidon in southern Lebanon, In this sortie, the pilots manning the squadron aircraft were Lt. Colonel Shiomo, the first squadron commander in the F16C era fying aircraft number 392 and Lieutenant Chagi fying aircraft number 389. Each aircraft carried 410 Mk.82 bombs, stationed on 4 TERS beneath the wings. Such a routine strike was scheduled for ‘noon of November 23rd, 1989. Four aircraft from the squadron took off, their bombs destined for an Ahmad Gibril bunker complex, located in the area of Sultan Ya'akub and Bar Alias. Lt. Colonel Lotan led the strike and the formation encountered AA fire over the target. During the strike, the pilot of aircraft number 388 reported he had a hydraulic malfunction. The pilot released the remaining bombs and headed back to RamatDavid, accompanied by the rest of the formation. The hydraulic maifunction had been caused by AA fire, which completely tore off the right horizontal stabilizer ‘and punctured the vertical stabilizer. The aircraft spent a few months in a maintenance hangar and, after being serviced and repaired, was returned to fying status. Like the rest of the IAF during the 1991 Gulf War the squadron went to its highest state of alertness. Reserve pilots were called to duty and, on January 13th, 1994, the squadron's pilots were briefed for a possible preemptive strike in iraq, On January 16th, orders were given to perform the strike, only to be cancelled when the pilots were already seated in the aircraft. During the confict, however, some of the FAGC Block 30 No.397, Knights of the North squadron, 1989, Knights ofthe North squadron bombs mounted on TERs, a 300 gallon belly 16C number 397 is armed with six Mk.82 500Ib ink and AIM-9L missles30FA6D Block 30 No.034, Knights of the North squadron, 1989. Th raft we ts ofthe N squadron the only F-16D in Top: This 1991 Gulf war photograph shows F-16C number 374 with a full bomb load. This aircraft was part of anexhibition to the Israel defence tminister, Moshe Arens, displaying IAF capabilites fora possible strike intrag The aircraft carries twelve Mkc82500 1b. bombs on TERS, two AIM-9L missiles and a 300 gallon fuel tank. TAF Museum joung and inexperienced pilots of the squadron to taste and smell the “real thing” and, for many, to make ther fst combat sorte. in spite of intensive fight schedule and feeling of actual combat, Lt Co. Dan, the squadron commander, deserved the campaign as “routine, one can say, almost boring. There was a challenge, because we were ghen targets, and we made every effort to hit and destroy them. Mostly, the hits were very good and we did a good job, but re was no feeling of war. This was operational activity, lacking air and ground opposition It was tke a practice range, only with much more adrenalin” Operation “Grapes of Wrath” began on April 10th, 1993. It was similar to operation Accountability’, only more intensive and lasted for a longer period of time. During these two and onetalf weeks the squadron performed 80 combat sorties, comprised of 72 ground attack missions, 6 combat air patrols and 2 sorties, which involved creating supersonic booms over Lebanese cities. 31 The entire squadron's cadre of pilots, including reservists and emergency postings, sortie and, in spite of the turmoil in the squadron's fight line, the ground mechanics didn’t miss the opportunity to “baptize” them after returning from the fight. The squadron commander, Lt. Col. Adi later remarked: “We attacked Katyusha launching sites and, later on, roads as well. The attacks were made from a safe altitude and extreme caution was taken not to injure civilians. The ‘orders were to abandon the attack if there was a doubt or a problem identifying the tatget. This indeed happened when a fight Of four aircraft returned to their base without their bombs, because the harsh ditions above the target made identification impossible’ The continuation of Katyusha attacks, in spite ofthe intense bombing, resulted in picking an infrastructure target: a transformation t Salim in the vicinity of Beirut. A pair of squadron aircraft, together with two from thewartiors and aircre from was launched to drop fi Above: Knights of the F-A6C number 389g ay at Orda AFB wh cleaning vehi ‘wait patiently Left: Knights of the North qu F-A6C number 388 in th ach Below: A vey int of the Kai F-16C mu AFB during APD daring the IAF j badge were ap ge Shield of ied, Note th 4s painted in “nega rs Normally, the background teould ha ack and lightning silver Finally, note thatthe tail number First Jet typical to theAloe: Knights ofthe North Squadron F-16C pair acoaits take-off earnce ith an A-AN duo from the lying Tigers squadron IAF Magazi Below: Knights ofthe North Squadron F-16C trio prepare for take- faring a squadron deployment {othe Ovda AFB in southern Israel Note the paint chipping on the erica stabilizer ofthe aircraft in the center: IAF Magazine CCH-53 helicopters were involved, Upon reaching the area, | could see two blazing fires on the ground and the rescue helicopters activity below. The sortie lasted an hour and | wasn't informed regarding the number of casualties. | was only gven orders concerning the mission - where should | fy to, where | should drop the fares, et.” Only after landing, Lieutenant Tal learned about the size ofthe tragedy On February 22nd, 1998, the squadron opened a new field of operations for the FA6C and the IAF: alweather attack, It was a winter evening, with complete cloud coverage, when a pair of the squadron aircraft attacked a target in Lebanon. Each aircraft dropped two Mk.84 2000 tb. bombs through the clouds, completely destroying the target. On August Sth, 1998, the pilot of aircraft number 368 was forced to eject after an engine flameout shorty after take-off. The pilot attempted to retumn for an emergency landing, but the aircraft lost height rapidly. Passing 800 feet, above a cotton field near the airbase, the pilot elected from the aircraft and landed safely on the ground. The latest adition to the squadron arsenal is the JDAM Uoint Direct Attack Munitions) family of bombs. This relatively inexpensive kit enables upgrading “dumb” iron bombs highly accurate PGMs, by applying a new fin and a guidance kit, The bomb is guided by using GPS (Global Positioning System) and c hit the target within a 13meter radius. These bombs can be released from aporoximately 15 miles from the target and each is independently targeted. The JDAM is an autonomous weapons system and relieves the pilot of the need to uide the bomb during its fight tothe target. The opportunity to use this new weapon ccame eatier than any squadron member could imagine. On October th, 2003, a Palestinian suicide bomber detonated a bomb in a restaurant in Haifa, kiling more than twenty civilians. The woman was sent by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization, its headquarters {and training camps being given shelter by Syria The Israeli government decided to retaliate by striking one of the Jihad’s training camps, located 20 km from Damascus, thus sending a clear message to the Syrian leadership. The previous time an attack of this kind was made in Syria was 30 years eartier, sometime after the Yomippur war. On October 5th, 2003, two aircraft from the Knights of the Northwhile he Shows F-16C numb four AIM 9L is 2000 bombs Arspng the LAF 0 photograph says squadron, on F-16D, FA6C dio are seen fore sett fothenoroayKnights of the North squadron ‘number 397 is waiting for permission to taxi at Ramat-David firbase, The airraft is armed with four inert SUUL30 cluster bombs ‘mounted on VER-2 adaptors. Ra'anan Weiss collection Left: The pilot of Knights of the North squadron F-16C number 394 is making last minute checks inthe cockpit tohile from the side round ee personnel watch Below: Knights of the Nort squadron P-16C number 384 is seen on static display at Ramat-David AFB, An ‘upgraded F-15 fom the Knights ofthe Double Tail squadron is seen in the backgroundFAGC Block 30 No.394, Knights of the North Squadron Baights ofthe North squadron F-16C number our MK.84 2000 Ib, bombs ind apair of AIM-9L missile Typ Knights of the North squadron AGC munber 388 is carrying eninpressive array of weapons fncing 20001, JDAM bors, Rafal Python 4 missiles and AIM-9L Sidewinder atthe wingtips, Knights of the Aight: With is burner blazing Khights ofthe North squadron F-16C somber 386 is a eartheat away fron take-off speed. The airraft is “clean ir trainingTop: Knights of the North squadron F-16C mumber 393, a rarely photographed aircraft is seen taxing with four MK.82 bombs mounted on . VERS, taining AIM-9 missiles and full ioad of extemal fuel tanks, Lefts Knights ofthe North squadron F-16C number 359s, SD number 036, Note the patchy rance ofthe wing uel ta ts ofthe North squadroAbove: Knights of the North Squadron F-16C number 386 in close formation with a pair of P-15A tgls from 199° fighter squadron, 154% fighter wing based at Hickam APB, Haoati. The photograph was fakenduving a joint IAF and USAF ‘nan Krights of the North squadron Right: Knights of the North squadron FI6C number 380 is taxiing during Im IAF deployment to 2 USAF air us Knights ofthe North squadron Blow: Knights ofthe North squadron F-16C number 359 is seen at the IAF deployment to the USA fg ine with Scorpion squadron 16D munber 651 anu an F-16C fron the First Jet squadron Note that the sitver lightning onthe tail tatension is reversed, @ common pin shop mistake with this Squadron wirframes. Knights ofthe North squadronneawa” Squadron 4 u Mt 4a [a ¢ locelly built IAl Nesher (Heb tly before 88 Beloe: First F-16D, tail mummber (31, i sen during its ferry flight from Ramat-Davud to its reception Kippur War. The st a he Fist Fghte the most fam IAF. The squat m ceremony at Hatzor AFB. 1948, with the first r was yet another loc Moshe Weinberg 2eli state’ ion cub). This fighter was, n April 1975, and was late e aircraft, they sion, the Kfir C2. Bottom: The First Fighter squadron IAF first F-16D, tail number 31, fs taxing at Hatzor AFB. (on December 31st, 1987. Note the distorted red and white stripes applied at Ramat-David. yotian Armored wading for Tel-Aviv, forcing S first years of operation the squadron ter squadron w rated a varie uding the Avia with the Scorpion sq advanced aircraft into service, p jenerable Piper Cub. withdrawn, aiid were then fon. In April Frying Wing squadron, giving their place to the newest aircraft in the IAF arsenal: the Mystere IV. The squadron operated the Mysteres during the 1956 campaign, and shot down seven enemy aircraft. In 1962, the squadron accepted the rst Mir ters for turning it again to 2 front line unit. During the following years, dozens of enemy airer by the squadron Mirage fighters. The squadronAbove: An early photo of the First Fighter squadron F-16D manbers (27 and 063 seen waiting atthe last ‘hance point, rohore inal checks are made by the Right First Fighter squadron's first aircraft inthe F-16 era, Barak Trumber 031, is carrying the unit's traditional ruder moti ofr and white stripe. The Block 30 F-16D toast ist IAF F-16 tobe fitted with a larger air intake, required for the GE F-110 engine IF F460 (tail number 031) landed at RamatDavid AFB on December 27", 1987, in spite the fact that the First Fighter squadron home was Hatzor AFB. nat David was chosen being the home base of the two existing FA6C squadrons, and he sole FAGC maintenance unit at the time. The new aircraft was tested and prepared for ight. In adcition, the First Fighter squadron traditional rudder motif, consisting of ciagonal red and white stripes, was awkwardly apolied a RamatDavid, yielding a poor representation of the squadron famous tail. Three days after its arrival, the airplane was flown to Hatzor Airbase, accompanied by four of Ramat-David squadron's F-460, temporarily transferred tothe First Fighter ‘squadron to allow initial training and operations. These aircraft were 317 and 318 from the First Jet squadron, and 304 and 397 from the Knights of the North squadron. The introduction of the two seat FA6D into service required the training of a large number of navigators taking the back seat. These crew members weapon system officers, defined 'S for historical reasons. During the first months, the main active aircrews were the pilots, as there were only a few two-seat aircra new F-16D were arriving at @ monthly rate of two aircraft, and grad the navigators joined the fight operations. In addition to the IAF standard ordnance, the squadron is also trained to launch a variet of laserguided bombs including the TV guided GBU-15. The squadron became the IAF leading Unit for all weather attack missions employing guided munitions, In addition, the aircraft were supplied with new systems, one of which was the LANTIRN AN/AAQ.14 targeting pod that enables the crew to easily select and laser designate targets at right or adverse weather conditions, using the pod's FLIR system. The squadron was training vigorously, and in November 9°, 1988 performed their first operational strike. The squadron took part in Operation “Blue and Brown" of the IDF inF-16D Block 30 No.061, First Fighter squadron, 1990 First Fighte ron Block 30 F-16D 1 AN/AXQ-14 data link pod on the center y weight of the bombs, the AIM-9 Southern Lebanon. The operational purpose of the squadron was striking terrorist headquarters in Nuaima, AS part of the 1991 Guif war effort, the squadron sent a detachment to Nevatim AFB. Its task was interception and 59 CAP missions were launched. Anumber of strike configuration ercraft were ymber O61 is carrying da LANTIRN pod under the air les are po of GBU-15(V)1/B with ake. Due to ‘on stations 2 and 8, instead of on alert, awaiting orders to attack positions in lrag, This order was not issued This period also saw the squadron preparations for operating the Peace Marble Ill Block 40 F-16C/D aircraft. Delivery of these aircraft commenced on August 22", 1999 with the first two aircraft allocated numbers 502 and 503, While gradually receiving the Block 40.C/D Left: Firs Fighter squadron Block 30 E-16D muber 050 is seen on static display, carrying M82 practice bombs on a VER-2. Te partially ‘opened airbrakes, tilted tailerons and dropped flaps are typical to all F-16 types when the engines shut down and hydraulic pressure is of. Yoav Efrat Beloz First Fighter squadron Block 30 F-16D number 045 is ‘accompanying the Syrian MiG-23, MLD dluring atest light. This Mi 23 plot defected to Isruel early in October 1989, IAF MagazineAbove: First Fighter squadron Block 30F-16D munber 057 is taxing at Hatzor AFB during a rainy day. Note the aircraft is carrying an empty LANTIRN pylon Below right and left: Two photographs of First Fighter squadron early Block 30 F-16Ds tuners 055 and 075. Photographs (9f Block 30 airframes from this squadron are quite rare, since they were transferred to the Valley squadron after only three years of ‘operation with the First Fighter sauadron TAF Magazi models, the squadron transferred its 4 year-old Block 30 aircraft to the Valley squadron, which was reestablished in RamatDavid for this purpose. However, while this transfer was in progress, the squadron still performed strikes and routine training wit i remaining Block 30 F.6D aircraft, unt the transfer ofthese airraft was completed July 25%, 1993 was the opening day of Operation “Accountability”. At 10:30, a formation of 4 aircraft attacked Hizbullah headquarters in Ba'albeck deep inside Lebanese territory, close to the Syrian border. This mission was part ofthe intial stage of the operation, as the squadron commander, Lt. Colonel Ram later briefed: Prior to the ordnance release pass, | encountered an AAA position. | could see the solders running to man the guns, but they never made it... this was the most important strike performed by the squadron since we received the new F6 (from Block 40)". During the operation, the squadron executed 74 sorties, 48 of which were conducted at nighttime. Since the Lebanese battlefield was. crowded with civilans, the aircrews had to face a critical dilemma almost on every mission. A typical incidence occurred on the operation’s second morning, when 2 pair took off fora strike atthe vicinity of Lake Karun. The target was a number of Katyusha launchers, which were identified and destroyed. But from that point on, the situation became complicated. Captain R., one ofthe crew members later sai ‘While finishing our pass we noticed AAA fred in our direction, We asked the controler for an approval to attack the AAA position After receiving the ‘go-ahead’, we headed the enemy postion and while approaching, we realized the AAA position was loceted inside a certain building within the village. A quick check in the map revealed this building was actually the local school and was marked in our maps as a “sensitive site", a completely off limit location, like hospitals and mosques, We were facing 2 dire dilemma, since IAF explicit policy is to strike back if an aircraft is fired upon from the ground. We informed the headquarters about this. sensitive situation, and again requested permission to. strike The permission was given. Now, formally we ot our go ahead and could be content, but felt we were misunderstood. We vertedLeft First Fighter squadron Block 30 F-16D number 083 hurtes down | the runzoay zith ful after-burner, ” | seconds azoay from take-off speed. The aircrafts external load is only a pair ‘of 600 gallon extemal fuel tanks IAP Museum Below: First Fighter squadron Block 30 F-16Ds numbers 036 and 023 are seen at the lat chance point near the IAF Museum our transmission was received correctly, and heavy losses to the Hizbullah organization. Four nat this was a sensitive objective. When we of the squadron's aircraft (AF tal numbers: repeated that, being fusteted, I believe itwas 652, 637, 682, 633) together with AH64 he right thing to do. We dont have a reason —Peten helicopters from the Homet squad (0 harm civilian population. We may disturb attacked a Hizbullah traning base locate ner daily lif, bother them, but only for them Ba’albeck, within the Syrian SAM envelope. 45 derstand it's not worthy giving sheter for Hizbullah terrorists. We aim at nothing further wounded. temporarily transfered from the Fist than that’. This story ilstrates the delicate July 18%, 1995 was a sad day for the Jet squadron After submitting its situation the IDF and IAF are forced to, and how squadron and the IAF. A pair of the squadron Block 30 F-16D to the Valley squadron crewmembers take risks upon themselves to aircraft, performing a night training mission, — etivery rate of new Block 40 aircraft, orevent oss of innocent ite collided in midair. The squadron's commander, thers Fighter squadron found On September 2" 1993, the remaining Lt. Colonel Roni Shlomi, and his navigator itself with an inadequate number of Block 40 aircraft were accepted. Captain Yuval Benyamin perished in the Sreuh The storat ea On September 6", 1994, the squadion colision, ile the crew of second airraft the northern F-16C squadrons. participated ina sttke sortie thet caused managed to eject and be rescued ftom the APM Bottom: A unique photograph of thre in aircraft representing to generations of Fl6s: Block 40 F-16C number S Ps 102, Block 30 F-16D number 045 and inthis strike, and 70 were lock 30 F-16C number 45. The laterAbove: First Fighter squadron Block 40F-16D number 612 is se the One squadron F-4E Kurnass 2000 nunnber 668 above northern Istuel. The F16 is carrying # generation of the Rafael Litening Pod, painted in white Upper and lower right: Aircraft Anansfer betwocen the squadrons is omnion practice. Here, the First Jet Squadron lent aircraft numbers 45 td 317 to the Fist Fighter squadron toassist operations, until all ofthe squadron's new Block 40 airframes vere anvve. The receiving squadron's badge was ap the First fet sq of r-pointing 1 IAP Magazine ied over dron badge, insteadF-16D Block 30 No.O22, First Fighter squadron, 1990 First Fighter squadron Block 30 F-16D numb 2 with the IMI Dé 600. tanks and four live AIM-9L s, Pel6s can carry up {0 Top: First Fighter squadron Block 30 F-16D munber 039 is taking-off ‘with 600 gaon fuel tanks, captive AIM-9 missles andar Israel Military Industries Delilah gliding decoy. IM Aircraft Systems Division Left First Fighter squadron Block 40 F-AGC number 323 air intake ‘and turbine blades are about to be thoroughly checked by this grown ‘crew member The intake bright red FOD covers placed on the runtoay near the aireraft IAF MagazineAbooe: First Fighter squadron Block F160 number 612i flying abo the northern city of Haifa. Note t Dox like antenna fitted ahead of the ‘engine nacelle. This system was later removed from the Block 40 F-16s AF Mages Rigi: A twilight landing of First Fighter squadron F-16D Block 40 ruber 648, This aircraft is returning from an air-to-air traning sortie TAP Magaz Rig: First Fighter squadron Block AMF-16D mamber 624 starts its take-off un. The aircraft carves two ted captive AIM.9 missiles, a sing Python taining missile and an ‘pty LANTIRN pylon. TAF Magazine F-6C Block 40 No. 519, First Fighter squadron, 2002Mediterranean Sea, The ex of this accident ware never clarified, The Negev squad mander, Lt. Colonel Nimrod was appointed to replace the late squadron ‘commander. squadron of Wrath’ r of sorties and performed the hig compared to other IAF squadrons. with the uadron operate the Block 40 se squadrons are the only non- AN/AXQ-1 held at angle by a special spacer, o ensu pnetaremcarouiinat units in th nd two s On many oc in the C cockpit, the D aircraft crews assist F16C/D will cer ranks of the First Fighter sq years to come, Note that the b single seat and t formation, oF mission, due to a higher workload rating both This unique rent of new soldier on the fon for many Above: With its airbrakes deploye, flaps and slats extended, First Fighter squadn Block 40 F16C number 528 is about to touch down on one of AFB runways. Left First Fighter squadron Block 40 F-16C number 50 i seen refueling from ant IAF Bocing 707 tanker. Acorlng to its weapon load, the ke For ‘ireraft is pra icing lon combined with air-to-air e this purpose it carves large 600-gallon fuel tanks, Pave Penny passive laser tracker and twvo Mk.82 500 Ib, bon In addition, the aircraft carries a 300 gallon belly fuel tank and inert AIM 1 missiles painted fi identificato Raanan Weiss collectionLeft: rare photo showing a First rom Block 0 F-16D ith a Pave Penny laser tracker. Normally, the LANTIRN pod fs carried when theres a need to ate targets illuminated by laser, st Fighter squadron Block 40 16D mumber 603 is seen during fan IAP deployinent to Turkey. The aizeraft is configured with 600 gallon external wing tanks and a 300 gallon belly tank. The Israeli air space ‘very limited and a deployment of this kind enables IAF aircrew to familiarize themselves with sorties ‘of long intervals in a now familiar IAF Magazine Bottom: A very tight formation (of 3 F-16Ds from the Fist Fighter squadron. The aircraft ae armed inna classical attack configuration including to GBU-16 1000 I, laser guided bombs, two AIM-IL sidewinders missles, two 370 gallon fuel tanks and a 300 gallon belly fuelea. Right: A beautiful photo ofF Tigh the Isa IAP a F-IGC Block 40 No. 520, First Fighter squadron, 1998 40 F-16C number 520s on performs both air First Fighter squadron Bl 51Spine of Block 40 F-16D has only two chafiflare dispensers on ac Left: First Fighter squadron Block 40 F-16C nuinber 520 moves slowly tots allocated she. Ratanan We stion Below: First Fighter squadron Block 40 F-16D number 612 is with Fs from the 199° fighter squadron, 158 participating ina jointusar igh: Fist Fighter squadron Block $9F-16D number 652i taking-off Bulow: First {0F-160 mo 53=z olen odeon's Squadron he Scorpio Was. initially In accordance with the IAF aim of converting formed as a flight from the First from pistonengine fighters to jet fighters, ight n, serving also as the squadron received the IAF frontline fighter in OTU of the D Mustang’s the lat f Mystere. The first ft were received by the arent squadron, the sik jadron at 958, and w AFB, on Decembe as @ separate unit, Hat surplus Spitfires of their later joined by no less than 30 aircraft, former unit. One of the squadron myths te jadron one of the largest units in the me originates from the 's that With this type and its local hybrid improve abitat, but it is the Sa’ar, the squadron participated in every nflct, futfling the missions of attack and rt. The Sa’ar was replaced with ned the squadron's fis very unclear how muc LeftcE Seorp design attempts for the with th in the openin ing the first sal red lightning, familiar from the aircraft, the F-4E is checked on te North squadron Bi ber 388 of AGM-78 antiradiation 1 f the Syrian SAM sites guidance radar ion, one of the s¢ only F4 MiG kill of the war. This last kill of a F-4 in the IAF, The F-4 jed on December 28°, 1987, with all of uadron’s aircraft making an impressi st over Hatzo’ n After 4 years of hibernation, the Scorpion £2 the tail of F-16C mm cisdean WaclicaetNaled the teeles a Clsseet to tee comers ene aee 3S 8 squadron command t. Apart from technical 7, ishment team had another Scorpion squadron squadron former 4 th the scorpion badge and a s the aircraft fuselage Below right: F-16C number 506 was the first to be painted with the sand i by Raanan Weis hile this graphicé el for the SuperMystere’s and F4’s spacious airframes perfectly, the woh slim body of the F-16 had no surface area a lightning flash. A few designs were wally cut the template by himself!applied to the fin base. In addition, the scorpio ichitiateaenront FAD mber 046, vas temporerily nt swoul ft an right: The Sconion Fits pied to Block operating DF-16C number 506 and Block 30 the squadron a model FA6D muntber 06 The LANTIRN jas intensively operational double chi The squadron performed its fist operational € July 1993 operation “Accountability base of mumber 06 strike on October 21, 1992, using the LANTIRN where the squadron illustrated its newly rnin sq targeting pod, when 'a pair of the squadron's acquired night capabilties. The Scorpions Below: 5 «30 tacked Hibullah targets on the conducted 69 sorties od of a SAM-2 defended area. of the operation, Only two of 2 and 1993, the IA @ CAPs and the rest were ground missile and an empty LANTIRI arch for its n Munitions releas pylon ended to replace the Included: 28 Mk.83 Pa Ralanan W i main contenders were an improved versi Paveway LGBs and 14 Mk.84 iron bombs. aire isa raring AIM 8. The xt geneThese sorties were performed using the Pave Penny laser acquisition pod or the LANTIRN designation pod. Most of the missions were executed during night hours. The squadron operated in collaboration with the First Fighter squadron, using the LANTIRN system to monitor nocturnal activity and prevent the firing of Katyusha rockets on northern Isl During this operation the squadron crews gained some unique combat experience, Which couldn't be acheived in training, and had to develop new combat tactics for certain rnission profes. The deputy commander at the time, Captain Yoay, later described: "There's @ distinctive difference between regular stikes and the operation period. At regular times, you get sufficient notice before the mission, so the aircraft can be prepared and there's time to study the target. On the ground, dozens of people check the ordnance and every possible technical detail. In operation “Accountability” it was @ different story. There were many alert takeoffs, with many mission changes while in mid ai. We had to develop new fighting methods in accordance to the situation on the ground. For example, in order to cut off Hizbuliah’s ‘operatives, we imposed an aerial blockade on the village of Jibshit. We were launched to hit traveling vehicles, 50 the blockade would be tightly kept, Hitting mobile targets is much more difficult than hitting a motionless vehicle and it Tequires unique skills. We learned something new on a daily basis”. On November 16°, 1993 the squadron attacked @ Hizbullah broadcasting station at the region of Ba’albeck. Ths strike was part of 2 lager strike, performed by three of the IAPs leading attack squadrons: the Scorpions, the First Fighter squadron and the Valley squadron. Like other IAF frontline squadrons, the Scorpion squadron was not operational only in southern Lebanon, using its precision strike capabilities to hunt Hizbullah terrorists and mobile Katyusha launchers. The 1996 ‘operation “Grapes of Wrath” saw the squadron performing 168 sorties within one week. One of these sorties was part of the opening chord for this operation. Is target was 2 Hizbullah logistics center in TeLKayal, located five Kilometers west of Ba'albeck. Harsh weather conditions in proximity to the Syrian SANidefended area and the complex fight Profle required that experienced fight crew should perform this mission. The squadron F-16D Block 40 No. 610, Scorpion squadron, 2003 This aire 4and AIM-9L missiles. ft carries a LANTIRN pod, GBU-12 Paved y IL LGBs, Python Above: Scorpion squadron F-16C ‘umber 503 and F-16D number 610 flying over the Temple Mount, Jerusalem. Note that number 503, carries the early cheoro design on its tail extension, while number 610 alrealy has the fn IAF Magazine version appliedAbove: Shock waves form in the trail of Sconpion squadron F-16C number 503, taking-off from Hatzor AFB to fan air-to-air training sortie, IAF Magazine Right: Scorpion squadron F-16C umber 534, Landing at Hatzor AFB after an air-to-air training sortie Below: The pilot of Scorpion squadron F-16C number 503 deploys the aircraft’ airbrakes and tilts the tal stabilizers in order to the aircraft's speed. IAF Magazineprevious ni mmission prof Above: Scorpion squadron F-16C ‘and flaps extended and airbrakes deploy TAP Me Left: Scorpion squadron F6D rmumber 610 is directed out ofits id ani sky. The difficult visual condit rely completely on our instruments. As a pilot, it s a very weird feeling’. The airc Below: A quartet of ScorpionAbove: Scompion squadron F-16C/D trios seen in lwo level flight above the Dead Sea. Note the subtle Aifferences between the chevrons on the aircraft tail bass. IAF Magazine Right: A close-up ofthe formation ‘members, aircraft numbers 503 and 535. Each aircraft caries a pair 370 {gallon zoing tanks, 30 gallon belly tank and four live AIM-9L snssies IAF Magazine FAGC Block 40 No. 534, Scorpion squadron, 2003 This Block 40 F-16C GBU-12 F containers, was acquired using the LANTIRN pod, and was designated by the navigators on board the aircraft. Each aircraft released two MK.83 LGBS. Lt, Colonel 8. continued his story. “immediately after we dropped our bombs, strong AMA fre erupted from everywhere. Tracer shells exploded around us, the explosions being very impressive due tothe total darkness outside. We climbed swiftly and headed hore’ Alter landing, the ground crew discovered some feathers and blood inside one of the aircraft engines, indicating a bird strike on the aircraft has occurred during the mission. A careful ith a Pave Penny laser tracker, way II LGB's, Python 4 and AIM-9L ssiles. inspection of the engine indicated damage to the turbine blades, but fortunately the aircraft returned safely to base. During the last years, the LANTIRN pods were phased out and replaced with more advanced Israeli developed Rafael Litening I pods. The Scorpions. will continue to operate the Block 40 F-16, a8 one of the IAF leading squadrons, for many years to come, thanks to its unique strike capabilities and special armament,Above: breathtaking view ofa pair of HA-ISD Hornet aircraft with Scorpion squadron F-16D number 15 lying over mount Masada, This photograph eas taken during 1894 when the Hornet was one of the contenders for he IAP’s next fighter aircraft. During their stay, the aircaft were hosted by the Seorpion squadron. TAF Magaz Right Scorpion squadron F-16D umber 642 is landing, as evident byte airbrakes state. The aircraft farses thre extemal fuel tanks, IAF Magazine F-16D Block 40 No. 638, Scorpion squadron, 1998 This aircraft carries a LANTIRN pod, 600 g 42300 gallon belly tank, Delilah decoys and AIM-9Lly 62 F-I6D Block 40 No. 619, Scorpion squadron, 1995Above: Scorpion squadron F-16C umber 503, one ofthe squadron's frst aircraft, deploys its airbrakes inorder to join formation with the photographing aircraft. The aireraft furies no armantent, other than inert AIM-IL missiles. Raanan Weis Right: rave photo of Scorpion squadron F-16D nunnber 630 carrying A sgle GBU-15(V)21/8 with its AN/AXQ-14 data link pod atthe tenlerline, 600 gallon external fuel tanks, and « Mk.84 2000 Ib, bomb as a balance to the GBU-15, Raanan Weiss collect Right: Scorpion squadron F-16D ruanber 638 is armed with two live GBU-12 Paveway II LGBs, AIM-SL missiles atthe wingtips, 600 gallon fuel tanks and 300 gallon belly tank The aireraft is about to take-off for a night strike at southern Lebanon. Weiss coll F-16D Block 40 No. 638, Scorpion squadron, This aircraft i carrying a pair of GBU-15(V)21/B with its AN/AXQ-14 link pod, 600 gallon fAbove: Scorpion squadron F-16D under 619 being checked befor Turkish airspace. The photograph was taken during a squadron deployment to Turkey Left: A female ground crew directs Scorpion squadron F-16D munmber rng the same deployment. Many womten serve in the IAF as ground erew meonbers and a variety of technical duties. Below: Sconpion squadron F-16D umber 619 returns from training sortie during the same deploymentRight Scorpion squadron F-16D timber 666 aoaits take-off clearance together with an F-15 number 70, amed “Fire Fox”, from the Knights Of the Double Tail squadron an First Fighter squadron F-16D number 603. These aircraft visited Turkey as part ofan IAF training deployment. Blow: Scorpion squadron F-16D tmanber 656 is about to align at the ofa Turkish ar b Right: A Turkish Air Force member salutes to Scorpion squadron F-16D fuumber 630, The IAF delegation flight Tine ca be seen notAbove: 5 F-16C muonber 54 iver 651 daring an reUSAtraining with the IM-9D and Python its ir intake. Seorpion squadronron is one of the most 1956, right aft med after the included a preying eagle stead of Squadron the Sinai campaign, and flew han a decade, gradually the mor changing from @ primary IAF intercept unit s type f nto an attack and close support unit. It with this aircraft that the squadron moved to cron badge frst RamatDavid, making it its permanent hom and changing its name to th squadron, ie squadron, with a complement of 36 aircraft al its peak, performed numerous strikes during a red bomb, | the 1967 SicDay War, and its pilots shot down ares Checking the design A rae id smashing \two MiG-17 aircraft. photo of an early version of Valley ces) The Mystere era ended on February 8°, squadron's tal design, applied to ron role, from 38, when the squadron transfered its F-16D number 022. The diving bind af prey is painted in black while the fia ‘ersion was converted tothe color af aircraft to the Flying Wing squadron. Mystere was replaced 1e ASH Sky marking the transit manufactured aircraft. sand. Left: Valley squadron badges appli fo the tail of F-16D number 074 daring the opening ceremony held on fly 1991 Below: Thee of the squadrons ist aircraft are seen after landing at Ramat-David, with FOD covers on their air intakes and cockpit ladders besides each aircraft. 68Above: Two views of Valley squadron F-16D nunber 074 shortly after the Squadron was re-opened as a Barak equipped unit. IAP Maga: Below: The Firs Jet squadron transferred four ofits F-16Cs to their ew comrades, to help with initial ‘operations. One of these aircraft, mnber 355 is seen carrying Valley squadron livery Note the brown patch connecting the vertical tail leading edge and the aircraft's side, deviating it fom the standard IAP F-16 camouflage pattern IAP Museum thoroughly in our previous publication. The squadron, along with the other Skyhawk ‘squadrons was one of the IAF workhorses during the crucial period of the 1969 War of Attrition ‘and the 1973 Yom Kippur war July 20%, 1977 saw the transfer of the last Valley squadron's Ads to its sister squadron the Knights of the North. Only eight days later, the squadron brand new IAl Kfir aircraft landed at Ramat-David. With the Kfir in its ranks, the squadron became a unit with true muithrole capabilities, performing both attack and air defence missions. Though seniority in the air superiority role was quickly claimed by the new F:15 and F-16 fighters, the squadron held some responsibilty within the air intercept role, ‘and performed many CAP (Combat Air Patrol) F-1GD Block 30 No. 088, Valley squadron, 2003 This aircraft is configured for lon 600 gallon external fuel tanks, ta Pytion 4 and AIM-9L missiles. range precision strike, carry GBU-12 Pi ing 300 a nay II LGBs, a Litening pod, as well as strikes against terrorist targets in southern Lebanon. After playing a minor role in the Lebanon war of 1982, the squadron was decommissioned. All remaining aircraft were transferred to the Midland squadron at Hatzor, (on July 29°, 1985. Six years had passed until the squadron’s reformation, this time receiving the First Fignter squadron Block 30 F-16D aircraft. Even though these aircraft were already operational for few years in the IAF, the squadron managed to take the lead in many fields of operation, and was a true pioneer in many domains. The squadron first four aircraft (IAF tall numbers:074, 022, 034, 041) landed at Ramat David on July 2", 1991, and were received with a festive ceremony. The neighboring First Jet squadron provided four additional aircraft to their new comrades, enabling the immediate initiation of operational activity, while awaiting all of the squadron's aircraft to arrive, As part Of the renewed squadron spirit, a new design was applied to the aircraft tail, consisting of preying eagle, an enlarged version of the eagle silhouette appearing on the squadron badge. This design was sprayed using the standard lAF camouflage shade of send, so the disguise provided by the paint scheme was not disrupted. The squadron was quickly introduced to the intensive IAF operations in southern Lebanon, Using its unique precisionstrike capabilities. The two peaks of operations, the first being in July 1992 (operation “Accountabilty") and the second in April 1996 (operation "Grapes of Wrath") haven't skipped the squadron, sharing the burden with other IAF fighter units,again providing its proficiency the benefit of accurate strikes. On operation Accountability’ the squadron performed 26 sorties, comprising 18 strike missions, 4 CAP missions on both daytime and nighttime, and 4 Katyushahunting” sorties, where aircraft were to fly above known or suspected Katyusha firing zones and attempt to destroy the launching crews and vehicles while they were trying to fire their rockets, On October 21, 1996 the squadron participated in an IAF deployment to Turkey made possible thanks to the developing military cooperation between the two countries. This kind of deployment enabled the execution of longrange sorties, combined with the challenge of navigation in unfamiliar terrain, which is not possible in the limited boundaries of Israel These deployments also give the pilots the unique experience of mutual training with a foreign air arm - a scenario that become more and more common in today’s theatres of with PGMs for ts itt a _&. ‘operation. The fact that the squadron the F416, also in service with the Turkish Air Force, eased the adaptation of the Israeli ‘and technical echelon accompanying them at the local airbases. As this joint exercise gained momentum, another ally, the USAF, joined these deployments, making it a “local Red Flag", as described by senior IAF officers. These exercise scenarios have developed and now resembled the Nellis AFB original, dividing the participating units into even quantities of Turkish, Israeli and USAF units, forming a “blue” side and a “red” side, fone playing the role of the aggressive force ‘and the other acting as a defending force. Scenarios included air strikes, long-ange low. level navigation, search and rescue practice, as well as air defense missions. An interesting event involved the squadron in early 1999, when the IAF's first female Combat navigator, Second Lieutenant Sar joined the Valley squadron, opening the way for Above: Valley squadron F-16D number 075 with a heavy war load that includes: two 600 gallon fuel tanks, a pair of GBULIS(V)2178 with ts AN/AXQ-14 data link pod on the centerline station and AIM-IL ‘missles. The heavy bobs and fuel tanks require the mounting ofthe Sidewinder missiles om stations and Valley squadron F-16D manber fs about to land at Ramat-Dacid, USVI c enrrying two inert bombs.Above: Valley squadron F-16D mer 034 is seen during take-off ‘with AIM-9D and Python 4 training rounds. This aireraft served atthe neighboring Knights of the North uring 1989, fanan Weiss collection Right: Valley squadron P-16D nun (22 is taking-of for an air-to training sortie, Note the unusual large Shi Is of David applied to th Imost completely covering it ‘and the tilted Shield of David on the Right Valley squadron F-16D number G77 is armed with alive weapon load consisting of four Mk.84 2000 1b, bombs and two AIM-9L missiles The aircraft i bound for a strike in southern Lebanon. This arcra lost nan accident during Ma 21,