F-16i
Photo: Hanan Greenberg
Israel receives 4 new F-16I jets
Air Force says government won't renege on deal with Lockheed Martin despite discovery of carcinogenic substance in fighter jet of same make last week
Four new F-16I (Storm) fighter jets arrived in Israel
Thursday evening as part of a deal signed in 2000 with Lockheed Martin Corp to purchase 102 planes of the same model.
No Signs of Illness
Following discovery of carcinogenic substance on Storm jets, IAF commander seeks international medical opinions, promises to explore issue until resolved. Exposed pilots show no signs of illness thus far
The two-seater F-16I, known in Israel as the "Storm", was designed specifically for the Israeli air force. The new jets will be equipped with Israeli-made systems.
The US defense contractor began delivering the planes in 2004, and Israel Air Force officials said Israel would not renege on the deal despite the discovery of a cancer-causing substance in one of previously delivered jets.
IAF officials estimated that the majority of fighter pilots who have flown in F-16I's have been exposed to the carcinogenic substance which was discovered, but stressed however that those exposed have a very low risk of developing the disease.
The pilots in question will undergo special tests to monitor any possible cancerous developments as part of their routine physicals. At present time the carcinogenic material has not been found in other jets.
Reuters contributed to the report
