Ukraine Now Equipped with Israeli-Made Systems on F-16 Fighters
The F-16 fighter jets that Ukraine finally received from Denmark and the Netherlands are equipped with advanced systems manufactured by Elbit and RAFAEL, technologies Israel had previously been hesitant to supply to Ukraine. According to media reports, the aircraft come with three significant systems.
One notable system is a helmet-mounted sight, jointly developed by Elbit and Rockwell Collins for US and NATO forces. This allows pilots to visually track and engage enemy aircraft by transmitting their location data through the helmet’s field of view.
Two other Elbit systems, manufactured in Denmark, are mounted under the wings. One detects incoming missiles and alerts the pilot, while the other releases heat decoys and metallic particles to confuse radar.
Additionally, Ukrainian pilots were previously photographed training with the Lightning Pod, a RAFAEL system resembling a winged missile. This pod houses cameras, laser sensors, and other equipment, significantly enhancing the aircraft’s ground attack capabilities.
While these systems enhance Ukraine’s combat capabilities, it’s worth noting that this is not all. Further deliveries are expected to include equipment enabling deep strikes and preventing enemy shelling.
Israel’s Selective Supply of Advanced Technologies
Initially, Israel refrained from providing Ukraine with modern weaponry despite international pressure. However, after the F-16s arrived, Israel defied the so-called “embargo” and supplied these advanced systems.
The arrival of the F-16s is expected to significantly strengthen Ukraine’s air defense and protect its major cities from bombing.