Lessons to learn in Falcon Strike, states IAF

As F-35 Lightning stealth fighters from the US, UK, Italy and Israel test their combat skills in the skies over Italy during Exercise Falcon Strike, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) is marking a milestone with the first overseas deployment of the aircraft since it entered service.  

According to a June 7 release from the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), Falcon Strike will run from June 6-17 and simulate various aerial scenarios, including air-to-air combat, aerial strikes, countering surface-to-air missile battery threats, air support to ground forces, and other scenarios simulating the challenges in operating in a contested environment.

IAF F-35s
The multinational Falcon Strike exercise is testing the F-35 aircraft in air-to-air, air-to-ground and command and control roles. Israel Defense Forces

The IAF deployed to Amendola Airbase in Italy with six F-35 'Adir' fighter jets, two Boeing 707 'Re'em' tankers and a G550 'Nachshon Eitam' control aircraft. In addition to the US, UK and Italian F-35 aircraft, with the UK operating the STOVL B variant, an Italian B-767 tanker, KC-130J and US F-16s will also take part.

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