The Israeli navy will replace its Israel Aircraft Industries 1124 Westwind/Sea Scan maritime patrol aircraft with Raytheon Beech King Air B200s.
The navy has been operating three Westwind executive jets that were modified to intercept guerrilla attacks from the sea since 1977.
The armed, radar-equipped Sea Scans have become expensive to operate, and will be replaced with five King Airs, equipped with Elta search radar and other sensors. An Elta radar, with improved capability to filter the sea clutter, was recently tested on a Sea Scan. Last year, the air force chose the King Air to replace electronic warfare Douglas DC-3's.
The air force has operated them since 1991 but will purchase at least another 10. Navy King Airs will operate within the air force unit, to take advantage of commonality.
Source: Flight International
