Israeli Air Force Welcomes New AW 119 KX Helicopters for Pilot Training

The AW119Kx 'Ofer' marks a technological leap in training, ensuring future pilots are prepared for modern battlefield challenges

Israeli Air Force Welcomes New AW 119 KX Helicopters for Pilot Training

Photo: Israeli Air Force website

This week, the Israeli Air Force officially introduced its new AW119Kx training helicopters, known as the ‘Ofer,’ which will replace the veteran ‘Saifan’ (Bell 206) helicopters in the Flight School’s helicopter program. The induction ceremony was held at Hatzor Airbase, attended by senior Air Force officials, including the Air Force Commander, Major General Tomer Bar, who highlighted the critical role of helicopter operations during the recent "Operation Swords of Iron."

Major General Bar stated at the event, “During Operation Swords of Iron, the helicopter force operated tirelessly from the very first moments of that grim morning. The force undertook rescue missions, evacuation of the wounded, precision strikes, and close fire support for ground forces—working as close as possible to the front lines.”

The new helicopters were selected following an extensive evaluation process conducted by senior Air Force officials and test pilots from the Flight Test Center. After comparing three different platforms, the ‘Ofer’ was deemed the most suitable for the required training missions.

According to the Air Force, the ‘Ofer’ helicopters incorporate advanced control, communication, and navigation systems. Notably, these include a real-time navigation system displaying the aircraft’s location and a heads-up display that provides flight data directly in the pilot’s line of sight.

Manufactured by Italy's Leonardo Corporation, the AW119Kx is a single-engine helicopter capable of reaching a maximum altitude of 15,000 feet and a top speed of 130 knots. It is intended to train cadets in the early stages of the helicopter track at the Flight School.

Brigadier General Gilad Bartal, Head of the Helicopter and Participation Division, and Colonel Shraga Gliksman, Commander of the Flight School, attended the ceremony.

The introduction of the ‘Ofer’ helicopters is part of a broader effort to upgrade the Air Force’s training capabilities, equipping future pilots with cutting-edge technological tools to meet the challenges of modern battlefields.

Air Force officials have described the new helicopter as a significant leap forward in airborne training systems, enhancing the Air Force’s readiness to face operational challenges in the coming years.

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