Israel’s defence ministry has issued a request for information for a new fleet of aircraft to replace its ageng CM170 Zukit (Fouga Magister) jet trainers under a private finance initiative (PFI) agreement. The Israeli air force has for several years been looking to replace its locally built CM170s, but has failed to make a selection despite flight testing several platforms.
Potential candidates for the new requirement are believed to include the Boeing/BAE Systems T-45 Goshawk, Northrop Grumman T-38 Talon and the Korea Aerospace Industries/Lockheed Martin T-50 Golden Eagle. Local suppliers Elbit Systems and Israel Aircraft Industries also plan to compete, with the latter promoting the Javelin trainer now in development with the USA’s Advanced Technologies Group. Bidders are to submit their proposals by February.
The deal will expand Israel’s current use of PFI training systems, which includes a 10-year air force deal with Elbit’s Cyclone Aviation subsidiary to operate 27 Grob 120A basic trainers.
ARIE EGOZI/TEL AVIV
Source: Flight International
