Kfir

   An Israeli-designed and -produced fighter aircraft, initially developed in the early 1970s. First used in combat missions in 1977, it had a maximum speed of Mach 2.3 and an operational altitude of 58,000 feet. It was designed to be employed in either an air-defense or ground-attack role. Depending on its role, the Kfir had an unrefu-eled range of between 548 and 737 miles. It was air-refuelable. Deployed by the Israel Air Force, it also became a popular element of Israel's military export industry.

   See also Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI); Israel Defense Forces (IDF; ZAHAL).