Posted on 04/02/2003 12:02:30 PM PST by yonif
April 2, 2003
Tens of F-16 fighter jets, originating from a base in the south of the country, landed yesterday, (March 31, 2003) at the Nevatim Air Force base. A ceremony for the transfer of the squadron was held in the presence of the Commander of the Israeli Air Force, Major General Dan Halutz. The new squadron will be known as the "Flying Wing."
F-16's were introduced to the Israeli Air Force in 1980, and currently serve as the backbone of the IAF. A year after their arrival, the planes were deployed to bomb the Iraqi nuclear reactor. Several of the planes that were moved yesterday participated in the above-mentioned attack.
Ten years ago, the IDF chain of command raised the question of whether or not to close the base at Nevatim as a result of budgetary woes. However, with reception of the new squadron and additional changes in the offing, Nevatim has been transformed into one of largest bases in the country.
In June, an additional squadron of F-16's will arrive at the base, and plans have been made to receive transport planes. In October, the IAF will take delivery of F-16I fighter planes. This is an important element of the IAF's strategic reorganization.
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