IAI to upgrade Sri Lankan Air Force's Kfir

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has signed a US$50m contract with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Defence to upgrade Kfir aircraft for the Sri Lankan Air Force and will include replacing the aircraft’s basic avionics in allow for the future integration of new radar, sensors, and communications systems.

The upgrade process will also include transfer of knowledge and skills for refurbishment to Sri Lankan Air Force personnel and will be completed in local facilities.

Kfir
The upgrade will pave the way for the future integration of a range of sensor and communications capabilities. IAI

In a June 30 release IAI stated that the decision by Sri Lanka to upgrade its Kfirs was base due part on the completion of a similar process by the Colombian Air Force.

Yossi Melamed, general manager of IAI’s Aviation Group, said: “I am grateful to Sri Lanka's Air Force for choosing to renew their Kfir selection and continue using the Kfir as their multi-role combat aircraft. I believe this deal is an early step in preparing for future upgrades to the advanced model KNG [Kfir New Generation]."