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The F-16I
is a two-seat variant of the Block 50/52 Plus developed for the Israeli
Defense Force – Air Force (IDF/AF). Israel issued a requirement in September
1997 and selected the F-16 in preference to the F-15 in July 1999. An
initial "Peace Marble V" contract was signed on 14 January 2000 with a
follow on contract signed on 19 December 2001 for a total procurement of 102
aircraft. The F-16I, which is called Sufa
(Storm) by the IDF/AF, first flew on 23 December 2003, and deliveries to the
IDF/AF began on 19 February 2004.
- The F-16I's most notable difference from the standard Block 50+
is that approximately 50% of the American avionics have been replaced by
Israeli-developed avionics (such as the Israeli Aerial Towed Decoy replacing
the ALE-50). The addition of Israeli-built autonomous aerial combat
maneuvering instrumentation systems enables the training exercises to be
conducted without dependence on ground instrumentation systems, and the
helmet-mounted sight is also standard equipment. The helmet-mounted sight,
HUD, mission computer, presentation computer, and digital map display are
made by Elbit Systems of Israel.
Furthermore, the F-16I is able to employ Rafael's new Python 5 imaging
infrared-guided high-agility air-to-air missile. The F-16I also has the
IAI-built removable conformal fuel tanks added to extend its range; removal
takes two hours. Key American-sourced systems include the F100-PW-229
engine, which offers commonality with the IDF/AF's F-15Is, and the
APG-68(V)9 radar.
So says Wikipedia. As Isradecal has some interest in doing IAF subjects, it is
no surprise that there is a sheet dedicated to this most interesting of the F-16
variants. Set 66 allows the builder the chance to build any aircraft of any of
the four squadrons operating the type. Modelers will need the Hasegawa or
Revell
F-16 kit and the Isracast conversion set to build one of these, but the set is
quite complete.
With this set of decals, there are enough data and insignia
to do two complete aircraft as long as they are not from the same unit. As with
all of the new Isradecal sheets, this one is superbly printed in the Czech
Republic. A full color 8 page instruction booklet is included as well as an
addendum sheet as there was a small printing glitch. As with all of IsraDecal's products, this one is highly
recommended.
November 2008
Review sheet courtesy of
and available from various retailers around the world as well as direct
from their website (click on the logo).
If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact
me or see other details in the Note to
Contributors.
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