BICOM

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) yesterday released details of its investigation into the loss of an F-16 that was hit by Syrian anti-aircraft missiles two weeks ago.

The report concluded that the crew made a ‘professional error’ when their F-16 fighter was hit by shrapnel from an exploding anti-aircraft missile whilst returning to Israeli territory. The pilot and the navigator ejected from the aircraft and landed within Israel.The pilot was seriously injured, and has yet to return to active duty.

IDF Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Gadi Eisenkot was presented with the results of the investigation, which concluded that the crew of the jet that was hit by failed to defend themselves properly from the threat of missile attack and decided to carry on with the mission. The report said the warning systems in the F-16 were functioning properly. However, the crew’s decision to eject after the plane had been hit was correct and saved their lives.

Eisenkot said: “Quite often, operational activities demand of us to take risks- I expect each fighter to understand the great weight on his shoulders during his missions.  The best way, along with the words of praise, is to ask questions. The investigation presented to me is professional and to the point and I am convinced that the operational conclusions will be produced.”

Israel Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin said he wanted to “praise our aerial defence systems, which detected and identified the Iranian UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle), as well as the soldiers who intercepted the UAV, destroyed the Iranian aircraft launch components and the additional Syrian and Iranian targets, strikes which severely harmed Syria’s aerial defence systems. Together, these attacks significantly curtailed Iran’s attempts to extend its influence in Syria.” Referring to the rescue, Norkin said that “less than 52 minutes passed between the aircrew’s ejection until they were treated in the hospital. I was happy to fly with the navigator, Maj. O, and converse with aircrew members. I was also pleased to see that the pilot, Maj. O, was released from the hospital and I look forward to his return to full activity.  Our thorough investigation reflects learning on all levels — from the headquarters to the field — and will ultimately strengthen and improve the IAF.”