Israel MOD Launches Approximately $80M Self-Protection Suite Program for F-16I Fighter Aircraft

The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD), through its Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) and Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD), has initiated a development and initial acquisition program for an advanced Self-Protection Suite for the F-16I “Fighting Falcon” (Sufa) fighter aircraft. Elbit Systems will lead the development project, under which the Sufa aircraft will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies to ensure maximum protection in complex combat scenarios.

The advanced protection suite includes:

•⁠ ⁠Electronic Warfare (EW) system providing advanced threat disruption capabilities

•⁠ ⁠Infra-Red (IR) Missile Warning and Launch Detection System for early identification of airborne and ground threats

•⁠ ⁠Advanced chaff and flare dispensing system for protection against guided missiles

The approximately $80 million program will equip the F-16I fleet with innovative technologies designed to ensure maximum protection in complex combat scenarios.

This process joins a series of strategic deals promoted by the IMOD under Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir to strengthen production independence in Israeli defense industries and reduce dependency on external factors. This is to ensure the IDF’s qualitative military edge and support its current and future operational needs under all conditions.