Iran Air Force to Replace AIM-7E Sparrows with AIM-23B Fakkars
Aging Sparrows to be Phased Out
The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF) is set to replace the aging AIM-7E-2 Sparrow air-to-air missiles on its F-14A Tomcat fleet with the newer AIM-23B Fakkur missiles. The Fakkur is an Iranian-developed, reverse-engineered version of the American AIM-54 Phoenix missile.
AIM-23B Fakkur: A Capable Replacement
The AIM-23B Fakkur is a long-range, semi-active radar-guided air-to-air missile with a range of over 100 kilometers. It is capable of engaging targets at high altitudes and has a high probability of kill against both fixed-wing aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The Fakkur is a significant upgrade over the AIM-7E Sparrow, which has been in service with the IRIAF for over 40 years. The Sparrow has become increasingly unreliable due to its age and has limited capabilities against modern aircraft and UAVs.
Conclusion
The IRIAF's decision to replace its AIM-7E Sparrows with AIM-23B Fakkars is a significant step towards modernizing Iran's air defense capabilities. The Fakkur is a more capable and reliable missile that will provide the IRIAF with a credible deterrent against potential threats.
The introduction of the Fakkur is also a testament to Iran's growing indigenous defense industry. The country has invested heavily in developing and producing its own weapons systems, and the Fakkur is a clear example of the progress that has been made.
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