lAF's Heron TP squadron to reach IOC by the end of the year

摘要

The Israel Air Force (IAF) will reach initial operational capability of its Heron TP high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) squadron by the end of 2011, Jane's understands. The Heron TP was developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), with deliveries beginning in 2010. The IAF refused to elaborate on how many UAVs it possesses or the number it plans to purchase in coming years. A senior IAF officer told Jane's on 4 September that the UAV would begin operational service by the end of the year. A first squadron is being established at the I AF's Tel Nof Base in the centre of Israel.