The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) has awarded a contract to Elbit Systems Ltd., valued at approximately $80 million, to enhance the survivability of its F-16I fighter aircraft.
Under the terms of the contract, Elbit Systems will develop and install an advanced Airborne Self-Protection Suite on the F-16I fleet operated by the Israeli Air Force (IAF). The upgraded suite will feature state-of-the-art Electronic Warfare (EW) solutions and an advanced Electro-Optical (EO) Passive Missile Warning and Launch Detection System (PAWS).
The enhanced capabilities aim to provide robust defense against a wide spectrum of airborne and surface-launched threats, ensuring the F-16I platforms can safely navigate and operate in contested environments. This move highlights the critical role of self-protection technology in modern air combat.
Oren Sabag, General Manager of Elbit Systems ISTAR & EW, emphasized the importance of the project. “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,” Sabag said. “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, commonly referred to as the “Sufa” (Storm), is a highly advanced variant of the F-16 designed specifically for the Israeli Air Force. Equipped with a range of advanced systems tailored for regional threats, the F-16I remains one of the IAF’s workhorses in both defensive and offensive operations. The addition of the new self-protection suite will ensure its relevance and effectiveness in high-threat environments.
The Airborne Self-Protection Suite integrates Elbit’s proven Electronic Warfare capabilities with the advanced PAWS missile warning system. Together, these technologies provide real-time threat detection, enhanced situational awareness, and rapid response mechanisms to counter threats, including surface-to-air missiles and advanced air defense systems.