As part of the Air Force’s ongoing operations over Iranian skies, another significant and historic operational achievement was recorded this morning when an Adir (F35I) aircraft of the Israeli Air Force shot down an Iranian fighter jet (YAK-130) in an aerial engagement.
“We embarked on this operation after extensive preparations, dedicated drills, and a deep understanding of what awaited us,” says Brig. Gen. D., commander of Nevatim base, from which the pilot departed for the mission. “All the teams, from the staff, through the technical array, to the pilot at the forefront, operate in synergy, in a collaboration without which such an event could not have happened.”
And so, approximately 1500 km from Israel, after a long flight of several hours, an enemy fighter jet was identified in front of the aircrew, or in professional jargon, the ‘combat assessment’. “Although this is an aircraft used for training the Iranian Air Force,” explains the commander, “even such an aircraft, however outdated, can inflict damage and cause immense harm.”
Facing the hostile aircraft, various types of Israeli Air Force aircraft were deployed, and the one chosen to handle the threat was the F35I, which possessed several characteristics that gave it an advantage in the scenario: “It has extremely advanced sensors that could lock onto the target quickly and accurately, and it is armed with long-range missiles, which the pilots are especially trained for, and are suitable for this type of mission.”
Indeed, the incident itself did not last long. “We detected it, engaged it – and fired at it. It wasn’t an overly complicated aerial battle, not a ‘dogfight’ or aerial skirmish. It was a rapid response – which ended historically in the skies of Iran.”
And what about the pilot himself? Although he is considered a ‘young’ pilot, he has already managed to accumulate considerable experience in the skies. “He underwent professional training that led him to the skills he demonstrated today and to a very high level of control at relative speed,” notes the commander. “He has also taken a significant part in the current campaign against Iran.” So it’s likely not the first time he’s seen Tehran from above, but it’s certainly the time he will remember best.
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