Avionic Systems for the Air Force

The IAF continues to look for a replacement for the Yasur helicopter.

Budgetary problems may lead to the addition of avionic systems in the Air Force on the basis of a "private finance initiative," which may circumvent the need to make immediate use of the defense budget.

This possibility will be explored to help find a replacement for the CH-53 Yasur heavy helicopter. Upgrades are continuously performed on the helicopter; however, the IAF has come to understand that a replacement is needed. As reported by Israel Defense, Boeing is offering the IAF its CH-47G helicopter as a possible replacement for the CH-53. 

The CH-47, referred to as "Chinook," is a dual rotor helicopter used extensively by the US Military. While its first flight was in 1961, many sub-models have since been manufactured.

The helicopter's two engines are installed externally on both sides of the tail. The non-folding landing gear enables complete utilization of the internal capacity – 9 m long, 2 m high, and 2.20 m wide. The helicopter has a 2-ton internal cargo carrying capacity or room for 44 soldiers and 8 tons on the hook. The two rotors revolve in opposite directions, so there is no need for a balancing tail rotor.

Though the IAF had previously considered procuring the Chinook, it ultimately decided to purchase the Sikorsky CH-53. Although the Yasur helicopters have been consistently praised, the IAF is currently in discussions to find a replacement. One option is to procure the new CH-53K model, which is currently in development. It is expected that this model will be produced in small numbers and sold at a high price.

It is still unclear as to when a decision will be made on a replacement for the Yasur, however, as aforementioned, Boeing is offering its Chinook, claiming that it is capable of fulfilling all of the IAF's heavy helicopter mission requirements. The proposed model is designed for special forces and is equipped with additional systems for special flight descriptors.

So far it appears that the decision to replace the Yasur will be deferred for several more years due to budget constraints. It is possible that the IAF may inquire about acquiring a small number of helicopters through third party funding and the sale of flight hours. Such an arrangement, known as PFI, helped the IAF procure new training aircraft.

This arrangement has yet to deal with the matter of operational systems such as heavy helicopters; however, it appears that the current conditions will foster innovative thinking.