Israel is phasing out F-16C fighter jets: the end of an era

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has officially retired its last F-16C Fighting Falcon, closing an important chapter in its aviation history. This phase-out, completed on July 16, 2024, follows the phase-out of previous F-16A/B Netz models in December 2016.

Farewell to the F-16C

The 115th squadron at the Ovda Air Base said goodbye to the last aircraft of the Barak-1 program, purchased in the 1980s. The Barak-1, named after the Hebrew word for lightning, is a variant of the F-16 Fighting Falcon modified to IAF specifications. Known for its maneuverability and speed, the Barak-1 has been the steadfast leader of Israeli aviation for over three and a half decades.

Transition to modern technologies

The F-16C phase-out coincides with the IAF's expansion of Lockheed Martin's F-35A Adir fleet. Although the F-16A/B/C models are no longer in service, the IAF still operates 47 F-16D Brakeet and 97 F-16I Sufa fighters.

Technical characteristics and capabilities

The Barak-1 has the general characteristics of the F-16 Fighting Falcon: a length of approximately 15.03 meters, a wingspan of 9.96 meters and a height of approximately 5.09 meters. Its maximum take-off weight is about 19,187 kilograms. Powered by either a Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-200/220 or a General Electric F110-GE-100/129 engine, the Barak-1 achieves a thrust of 23,770 to 29,000 lbf, reaching speeds in excess of Mach 2.

Equipped with advanced avionics, the Barak-1 includes an Elbit Systems helmet-mounted display for targeting, sophisticated radar systems such as the AN/APG-68, and robust electronic warfare capabilities. These improvements provide superior detection, tracking and survivability in a hostile environment.

History of weapons and exploitation

Barak-1 armament includes the 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon, air-to-air missiles such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder and Python 4/5, and air-to-surface munitions such as the AGM-65 Maverick and GBU-12 Paveway II. bombs This versatility has made it a valuable asset in numerous military operations.

One of the Barak-1's most famous missions was Operation Opera in 1981, when Israeli F-16s, including the Barak-1, struck Iraq's Osirak nuclear reactor. The mission was intended to prevent Iraq from developing nuclear weapons and was praised for its precision and execution.

The Barak-1 also played a critical role in Operation Peace for Galilee in 1982, providing air superiority and close air support in Lebanon. In recent history, the Barak-1 has been widely used in operations against militant groups in Gaza, including Operation Cast Lead (2008-2009) and Operation Protective Edge (2014).

Heritage and future prospects

The retirement of the F-16C marks the end of an era for the IAF, but also opens a new chapter as Israel continues to improve its air capabilities with the F-35A Adir. The Barak-1's legacy remains a testament to the aircraft's vital role in Israel's security and operational success for decades.


Additional source of information f-16.net

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