Tel Aviv: After Iran’s ballistic missile attacks on October 1, Israel launched air strikes on Tehran, Shira and Karaj. Iranian media reported five explosions in Tehran and Karaj, with blasts near the Revolutionary Guards’ headquarters, while fires erupted at multiple sites. Israeli sources claimed an explosion in a key security-related building in Tehran, where more than ten people were reportedly rescued.
Karaj, known for its nuclear facilities, was also targeted, though no confirmation on damage to these sites has emerged. Reports indicated over 100 Israeli aircraft, including F-35 jets, participated in the operation, with prior White House notification. Israel’s advanced F-35 jets, notable for their stealth, speed and sensors, play a crucial role in its air operations and regional defence.
There are three major variants of the F-35:
➤ F-35A: Conventional take-off and landing version, primarily for the Air Force.
➤ F-35B: A version with short take-off and vertical landing capability, ideal for forces such as the Marine Corps.
➤ F-35C: Version designed for landing and taking off from aircraft carriers, built for the Navy.
2. Stealth and Speed:
The stealth technology of the F-35 helps it evade enemy radar. Its design makes it extremely difficult to detect on radar, allowing it to enter enemy territory undetected and return safely. In terms of speed, it can travel at 1.6 times the speed of sound.
3. State-of-the-art Avionics and Sensors
➤ EO/DAS: This system, called the Electro-Optical Distributed Aperture System (EO/DAS), provides 360-degree coverage, giving the pilot complete information in every direction.
➤ AESA Radar: The F-35’s AESA radar system enables it to detect enemy aircraft and missiles at long ranges.
➤ HMDS: The Helmet Mounted Display System allows the pilot to see all critical information on their helmet. When the pilot looks outside, essential data is displayed on the helmet, improving reaction time and accuracy.
4. Weapon System
The F-35 can be equipped with various weapons, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, and guided bombs. It can also conceal weapons internally, maintaining its stealth capabilities.
5. Price of F-35:
The F-35 programme is the world’s largest defence program. The cost of an F-35 varies depending on its version and equipment but typically ranges from USD 80 to USD 100 million. The F-35 will continue to be upgraded in the coming years, making it capable of countering next-generation threats. The aircraft is proving to be extremely valuable in the modern era and its contribution to air security is considered unparalleled.
