SLAF Upgraded Kfir Successfully Completes First Test Flight

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Air Force successfully carried out the first test flight of its upgraded Kfir C12 fighter aircraft at SLAF Base Katunayake on Thursday (11).

The test flight, conducted after an extended period of ground validation and system integration, represented the transition of the aircraft from comprehensive testing on the ground to full airborne evaluation under the ongoing modernization programme.

Officials confirmed that the sortie was executed only after all required ground-based assessments had been successfully completed, ensuring the aircraft’s readiness for operational testing.

The historic test was witnessed by Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), and Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, along with senior Sri Lanka Air Force officers and key representatives involved in the upgrade initiative.

Known within the Sri Lanka Air Force as the “Lion Cub,” the Kfir aircraft has been a cornerstone of the country’s air defence system since entering service in 1996.

Operated by the No. 10 Fighter Squadron based at Katunayake, the aircraft has played a vital role in various operational scenarios, including significant contributions during humanitarian operations that concluded in 2009.

Its performance under demanding conditions has solidified its reputation as one of the most reliable and effective platforms in the SLAF fleet.

The current upgrade, undertaken in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), reflects a comprehensive effort to extend the lifespan and enhance the capabilities of the existing fleet.

Sri Lanka Air Force technical personnel worked closely with IAI specialists throughout the process, contributing to system integration, testing, validation, and long-term maintenance strategies. This collaboration has not only upgraded the aircraft but also strengthened local technical expertise critical for sustaining advanced defence systems.

The modernization programme covers four Kfir C2/C7 fighter aircraft and one TC2 trainer aircraft, all being upgraded to the advanced Kfir C12 standard.

The enhancements include extensive structural refurbishment and the integration of advanced avionics and mission systems centered around a modern glass cockpit configuration.

These upgrades are expected to significantly improve situational awareness, navigation, communication, and precision strike capabilities. Enhanced mission planning and debriefing systems will also allow pilots to operate more effectively while reducing workload, ensuring higher efficiency during complex operations.

With its improved air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, the upgraded Kfir C12 is set to transform into a versatile multirole combat platform capable of responding to evolving operational demands with greater adaptability and precision.

Originally developed and manufactured in Israel during the 1970s, the Kfir platform has demonstrated remarkable longevity and adaptability.

The latest upgrades breathe new life into the aircraft, ensuring its continued relevance in modern air operations while aligning Sri Lanka’s defence posture with contemporary technological standards.

Upon completion of the modernization programme, the enhanced Kfir fleet is expected to significantly strengthen Sri Lanka’s ability to safeguard its airspace, maritime approaches, and territorial boundaries. It will also contribute to improved readiness and responsiveness of the Sri Lanka Air Force in protecting national interests.