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G’day once again lads. There are to say the least, a ton of aircraft the world has to offer, some of which are already in game, but in different variants, one of them being the Kfir series, where I am suggesting the most modern variant in the real world, the columbian Kfir C.10, the final and most modern Kfir aircraft!
Description:
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The Kfir C.10 is a modernized version of the original IAI Kfir, a combat aircraft developed by Israel Aerospace Industries. It started its first roots with the Kfir 2000, which was pretty much the early variant of the C.10 (You can find more info here in my Kfir 2000 suggestion). Columbia, aswell as other countries were quite interested, thus they placed some orders for both the early 2000 variant and the more modern C.10. This updated model boasts several enhancements that significantly improve its performance and capabilities compared to your usual earlier Kfir’s. Compared to the Kfir 2000, it is very similar, however can carry more advanced weapons, like for example the Python 5!
One of the standout features of the Kfir C.10 is its Elta EL/M-2032 radar. This sophisticated radar system significantly enhances the aircraft’s ability to detect and track targets, moving beyond the limitations of a simple radar rangefinder. Additionally, the Kfir C.10 is equipped with a Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD) and two 127x177mm Multi-Function Displays (MFDs), which provide the pilot with essential flight and combat data.
The advanced radar system enables the Kfir C.10 to deploy a variety of missiles, including the Derby and Python-4 and of course the Python-5, which the previous Kfir 2000 didnt have, as well as older models like the Python-3. While maintaining the single-engine, single-seat configuration of its predecessors, the Kfir C.10 boasts a more powerful engine, larger air intakes, an extended nose, and a redesigned cockpit. It also incorporates Israeli avionics and systems, along with a distinctive air inlet at the lower front end of the fin.
History:
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In the late 1990s, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) initiated a project to enhance the Kfir aircraft for export purposes. This effort resulted in the development of the Kfir 2000, which came in two variants: the C10 and the C12. The C10 was outfitted with the sophisticated ELTA-2032 radar system, enabling it to detect and track targets across air, ground, and sea, and to guide weapon systems. Conversely, the C12 featured a radio range station instead of a full radar, akin to the earlier C2 and C7 models.
The Kfir C.10 was a powerful aircraft, equipped with state-of-the-art RAFAEL air-to-air missiles from the Python and Derby series. It was capable of supersonic interception and maintained its strike capabilities, allowing it to deploy precision weapons both day and night. Additionally, the aircraft was fitted with an air refueling system, which extended its operational range and flight duration.
The Colombian government acquired 12 former Israeli Air Force Kfir C.2s and one TC.2 because of an agreement with Israel, which were delivered to the Colombian Air Force (FAC) between 1989 and 1990. These C.2s were later upgraded to the C.7 variant.
In February of 2008, Colombia signed a new agreement with Israel to acquire an additional 24 Kfir aircraft from the Israeli Air Force. These aircraft were slated for upgrades by Israel Aerospace Industries to the C.10 standard. This delivery was part of a multi-year contract, awarded in late 2007 and valued at over $150 million, aimed at upgrading Colombia’s existing Kfir fleet and providing additional aircraft. The new Kfir jets, designated as C.10 and C.12, were equipped with the latest technologies and enhancements from IAI, which I have mentioned above.
Armaments:
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2 DEFA 553 30mm cannons
Up to 4 Python 3/4/5 or 4 Derby’s
All the former unguided bombs the older Kfir variants could carry
Guided bombs like the Paveway series, Griffin series and SPICE series with LITENING to guide them
Specifications:
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In terms of specs, the Kfir C.10 weights 7.285kg empty with a max takeoff weight of 16.200kg.
It features a wingspan of 8,22m, a wing area of 34,8m², the length of 15,65m and lastly a heigth of 4,55m, however, it is important to note that these could be bigger because of the new additions that were given to the Kfir 2000! Like all fighter variants of the Kfir, it can only carry a single crewmember. Powering this aircraft is your usual General Electric J79-J1E, giving it the engine power of 52,9 dry and with afterburner 83,4 kN aka 11900 dry and 18750 lbf with afterburner. As i said before, this gives it the speed of 2445 km/h, a service ceiling of 17,678 m, and a range of 770 km. It features normal countermeasures like flares (of course), a ballistic computer and an RWR. Unlike the older Kfirs, this one can take up to 72 CM’s by the looks of it.
The Block 60 Variant:
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The Block 60 is an even more advanced version of the C.10, which replaced a lot of older tech on it, like the radar being replaced by the AESA ELTA ELM-2052 radar, the DASH helmet being replaced by Targo systems. A lot of new stuff also got added to its capabilities aswell, like the Elbit Systems Emerald AES-212 electronic warfare system, Elbit Spectrolite SPS-63V6 electronic countermeasures system and thanks to the radar it can now also use the I-Derby missile.
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