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Israeli Air Force In Profile
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While Part I of this article examined the various roles and missions of the primary combat squadrons flying F-15, F-16, F-4, A-4 and Kfir aircraft the concluding section will look at the vital, but less visible units that provide the support necessary to make the Heyl Ha’Avir the highly effective force that time has proven it to be.
Airborne Early Warning
An integral part of the IDFAF operations and tactics since its arrival in 1977-78 is the Grumman E-2C Hawkeye early warning aircraft. Although basically similar to the US Navy version, the Israeli Hawkeyes have had some modifications introduced to meet local requirements. Undoubtedly, as these aircraft continue in service, continual modifications and updates will be introduced. The E-2C has already proved itself invaluable in providing assistance to IDFAF forces operating over Lebanon. The job of the E-2C is to control the fighter aircraft and give them early warning of approaching hostile aircraft. Its capacity to simultaneously handle multiple targets and pinpoint SAM launches proved to be an important factor in the success of the IDFAF over Lebanon.
Considering Israel’s small geographical size and the closeness of its enemies, the E-2C meets the IDFAF’s needs quite adequately. It is capable of tracking over 250 targets at once, controlling over thirty combat interceptions, at a maximum range of 370 kilometres, through the use of its radar, air data computers and navigation systems. The aircraft also contains passive detection systems for detecting outside signals up to 8000 kilometres away, as well as locating and identifying those signals. It also carries ECM to ensure its effectiveness against possible jamming attempts.
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