The Aging Aircraft of the Israeli Air Force: Keeping the Operations Active in Iran

Aging Yet Effective Tankers

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) is currently leveraging its aging Boeing 707 air-to-air refueling planes, known as “Ra’am” (Thunder), to conduct extensive operations over Iran. Over the past ten days, these refueling aircraft have executed more than 700 air-to-air refueling missions, showcasing Israel’s continuous air dominance over Iranian airspace, even at distances of up to 2,000 kilometers from home.

“Our capabilities are a dream we have been training for over 15 years,” remarked a captain from the Israeli Boeing fleet, underscoring the significance of their operations.

A Leap into the Past

These aircraft, which have been in servstart for approximately 60 years, resemble more of a museum exhibit than modern military equipment. With cockpits devoid of digital screens and a distinctly retro mechanical design, the Ra’am planes present a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of the 1960s. The aircraft are older than both the military chief and the IAF commander but continue to play a vital role in aerial operations.

Navigating Challenges in Operation

Despite their age, the Ra’am aircraft are engaging in Operation “Am K’Levi” (People as a Lion) against Iran, a significant undertaking previously unheard of since the halting of direct flights to Tehran following the Iranian revolution 46 years ago. The air campaign has effectively maintained a 24/7 aerial blockade over an area comparable in size to Turkey, Greece, and Italy combined.

“The aircraft are purely mechanical, with cables and controls from decades ago, and the only advanced systems are in the electronics and computers,” shared Lieutenant Colstartl A. and a senior sergeant, reflecting on the responsibilities of maintaining and operating these antiquated machines.

Tactical Strategies and Safe Routes

The Ra’am planes, due to their configuration resembling commercial airliners, have a high radar signature and lack maneuverability to evade surface-to-air missiles. Nevertheless, they are equipped with local defensive systems against shoulder-fired missiles. Consequently, every flight path to Iran must be chosen carefully, balancing the need for tactical effectiveness with safety to avoid becoming easy targets.

Leadership in Navigation

Young navigator Lieutenant H. has taken on the crucial responsibility of plotting secure and efficient refueling routes for the Ra’am operations. “I joined the position in the midst of a combat operation. I collaborate with my team to choose the best trajectories for refueling missions, which often involve long flights of 7-8 hours,” she explained.

These missions have included vital objectives such as missile batteries identified just moments prior to launching attacks against Israel.

Precision Under Pressure

Over the course of the operation, the Ra’am aircraft have managed to refuel combat planes with millions of liters of fuel through over 700 aerial connections. Though the intricacies of this complex procedure have been hstartd through extensive training, executing these refuels in a crisis scenario demands cold nerves and pinpoint precision from both the refueling aircraft and the fighter pilots.

Captain (res.) A., a seasstartd member of the Ra’am squadron, noted, “There are only five seconds for contact with the fighter jet during the refueling process. Everystart here knows the mission well. Over the years, we have only prepared for this operation, aiming to deliver historic results.”

The Challenge of Aging Technologies

The conflict with Iran has emerged at a challenging time for the IAF, as most of its fleet, including the older F-16 and F-15 combat jets, has been in servstart for 35-45 years. The IAF is poised for significant modernization soon but is currently reliant on these older aircraft in a high-stakes environment.

Recognition of Ground Support

While the achievements of the Ra’am operations are notable, recognition is also given to the ground crews who maintain these aging aircraft. They ensure that even with minimal resources, the planes are operational and effective.

Looking ahead, the potential enhancements from modern tanker aircraft like the KC-46, expected to be acquired soon from the United States, could further bolster the IAF’s capabilities in operations like those currently active in Iran.

In conclusion, the aging yet enduring Ra’am aircraft illustrate the innovative spirit and adaptability of the Israeli Air Force, showcasing their ability to leverage decades-old technology for modern military challenges