1/48 IAF F-16I SUFA

The F-16I Sufa (Hebrew for "Storm") is a highly specialized two-seat variant of the F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin specifically for the Israeli Air Force (IAF). It is based on the Block 52, but more than 50% of its electronics have been replaced with advanced Israeli-made systems.

The first machines were delivered to Israel in 2004 under the Peace Marble V programme. The Sufa is recognizable at first glance due to the conformal fuel tanks (CFT) on the back of the fuselage, which significantly increase the range without the need to hang additional tanks, and the large dorsal spine housing the sophisticated avionics. The aircraft is powered by a powerful Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engine and is capable of carrying a wide range of Israeli weaponry, including Python missiles and SPICE guided bombs. The Sufa forms the backbone of the IAF's strike force for long-range missions.

Kit details

This kit from Great Wall Hobby (L4835) is considered one of the best 1/48 scale interpretations of the F-16 family on the market. Thanks to the multi-part "slide-mold" technology, details such as the missiles and landing gear shafts are molded in one piece with incredible sharpness.

• The surface: high-end negative engraving of the paneling and detailed riveting that exactly matches the master.

• The kit includes parts specific to the Sufa version - conformal tanks (CFT), a distinctive fuselage spine and a wide variety of antennas and sensors.

• Armament: The impressive arsenal includes AIM-120B missiles, Python 4, SPICE 2000 guided bombs, AGM-142 Popeye, Delilah cruise missiles, AN/AAQ-13 navigation pods and AN/AAQ-28 targeting pods.

• Bonus: Included are self-adhesive masks for the cockpit and wheels and a detailed set of metal etched parts (PE parts).

• Camouflage: decals allow to build aircraft from famous Israeli squadrons (e.g. 107th "Knights of the Orange Tail", 119th "Bat", 201st "The One" or 253rd "Negev").

Please note: The kit does not contain paint or glue. These items must be purchased separately to complete the model and achieve a faithful appearance.

Summary:

• 🕒 Period.

• 🇮🇱 Nationality: Israel

• 🛠️ Difficulty: High (suitable for experienced modellers)

• 📦 S cale: 1/48