The Sri Lankan Air Force is upgrading its Israel-built Kfir multirole combat aircraft under a $50 million contract with Israel Aerospace Industries.
The contract includes replacing the aircraft’s basic avionics with 4+ generation fighter aircraft avionics in order to one day integrate advanced radar, sensors, communication systems, and new helmets.
The upgrade process will also include transfer of knowledge and skills for refurbishment to Sri Lankan Air Force personnel. The upgrades will be completed in cooperation with Sri Lanka’s Air Force and in their local facilities.
The Kfir, when first developed, was a game-changer on the battlefield with its ability to carry heavy ammunition and reach enemy targets in a precise manner. The decision to upgrade the aircraft now, was based in part, on the completion of a similar process in the Colombian Air Force.
IAI Executive VP and GM of IAI’s Aviation Group, Yossi Melamed, said, “I am proud that IAI’s Kfir has been chosen by customers around the world, including in the United States and as the Columbian Air Force’s primary fighter jet. I am grateful to Sri Lanka’s Air Force for choosing to renew their Kfir selection and continue using the Kfir as their Multi-Role Combat Aircraft. I believe this deal is an early step in preparing for future upgrades to the advanced model KNG (Kfir New Generation).”
