The Israeli air force has begun evaluating replacement options for its Douglas DC-3 electronic intelligence (ELINT) aircraft and Piper Super Cub trainers.
The aircraft under evaluation for the ELINT role include the Bombardier Dash 8, Embraer EMB-120, ATR 42, Fairchild Dornier 328 and Saab 2000. A decision on the replacement is due by mid-1999.
The air force plans to acquire five turboprop aircraft initially, although further purchases are likely as funding becomes available to replace more of the 18 DC-3s in its inventory - including 10 aircraft in storage.
The air force also intends to replace its fleet of 35 Piper Super Cubs, used in the primary training role. The limited manoeuverability of the Super Cub is thought to be one of the prime reasons for the replacement decision. The Northrop T-3A (based on the Slingsby T-67), hitherto viewed as the natural replacement for the Cub, is being re-evaluated because of a series of accidents in US Air Force service.
The Israeli air force is considering other possible replacements for the Super Cub, with a decision likely to be made in 1999.
Source: Flight International
