Phantom Fighter Maiden Flight
11 august 1987
04 June 2007 , 10:00
The Kornas 2000, an upgraded Phantom fighter jet, took its maiden flight with the Minister of Defense, the Chief of the General Staff, and the commander of the Israel Air Force in attendance. The jet landed as the ceremony was underway, its pilot handing it over officially to the Air Force. The aim of the Kornas 2000 project, which began in 1980, was to extend the operational lifespan of IAF's Phantoms at least through the year 2000. To accomplish this, the aircraft was given brand new avionics and aeronautical improvements. Following the successful first flight, all Air Force Phantoms were assembled and brought in stepwise for upgrade. Immediately upon returning to operational service, the Kornas 2000 aircraft proved the effectiveness and quality of their upgrades.