IAI Lavi
IAI Lavi | |
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IAI-Lavi-B-2 prototype in Museum Heyl ha-Avir |
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Type: | Multipurpose fighter |
Design country: | |
Manufacturer: | |
First flight: |
December 31, 1986 |
Commissioning: |
Never put into service |
Production time: |
Was never built in series |
Number of pieces: |
3 prototypes |
The IAF Lavi (Hebrew לביא = lion) was a modern 4th generation fighter aircraft that was developed by Israel in 1980 . However, the project was withdrawn due to the lack of finance and possible export competition to the General Dynamics F-16 and McDonnell Douglas F / A-18 .
description
Development of the aircraft by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) began in 1982 following preliminary project work. The Pratt & Whitney PW1120 was chosen as the engine, the aerodynamics were designed as a delta wing with canard control surfaces . Advanced avionics with diagnostic software for self-analysis of technical problems using sensors should be used.
The Lavi's maiden flight took place in December 1986 without much of the planned avionics. After the overall good results of the test flights, the project was discontinued due to the lack of funding after the construction of the second prototype. The commitment to split the costs of 60% Israel and 40% USA was withdrawn by the USA due to possible export competition with the General Dynamics F-16 and McDonnell Douglas F / A-18 . The plane could no longer be fully financed. Despite the completion of a self-financed third prototype and support from politicians and the military , IAI tried in vain to continue the project.
Technical specifications
Parameter | Data |
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crew | 1 pilot, (trainer version: 2 pilots) |
length | 14.57 m |
span | 8.78 m |
height | 4.78 m |
Wing area | 33 m² |
Wing extension | 2.34 |
Wing loading |
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Empty mass | 7,031 kg |
normal takeoff mass | 9,991 kg |
Max. Takeoff mass | 19,277 kg |
Top speed | 1965 km / h (at optimal flight altitude) |
Service ceiling | 15,240 m |
Max. Rate of climb | 254 m / s |
Transfer range | approx. 3700 km |
Engine | a TL Pratt & Whitney PW1120 turbofan engine |
Thrust |
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Thrust-to-weight ratio |
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Armament
- 1 × 30mm DEFA cannon
- 7,260 kg weapon loading at outstations
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