Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is in discussions with Sri Lanka to upgrade and return to service its Kfir fighter aircraft, according to the UK-based defense publication, Jane’s Defence Weekly.
Speaking to Jane’s on 12 December, a senior IAI official said the company is in talks with the Sri Lankan government to upgrade and return to service its five grounded Kfir fighters.
As the Kfir’s original manufacturer, IAI can offer the aircraft with tailored upgraded systems, and guaranteed maintenance support.
Sri Lanka Air Force is in need of replacing its currently ageing fleet of Israeli Kfirs and MIG 27s with a new generation of high technology aircraft to replenish Sri Lanka’s air defense capability.
The government is considering to buy eight multi-role fighter aircraft with associated weapons on a government-to-government basis and last year received the approval from the Cabinet of Ministers to purchase new fighter jets for its Air Force to replace the ageing jet fighters.
