Difference between revisions of "Nesher"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Israeli jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]].
+
The Nesher was meant to replace the [[Shahak]] in the IAF. It started as a hidden project, basically as a copy of the French Mirage 5 to avoid the embargo imposed over Israel during the Six-Day War. The aircraft started production in Israel in 1969, with a few changes to the design and electronics to suit Israeli needs more precisely. With the help of Dassault Aviation, different parts were smuggled into Israel. It featured Israeli-made avionics, compatibility with [[Shafrir 2]] and [[AIM-9D Sidewinder|AIM-9D]] AAMs, better range, and an ejection seat. The aircraft showed good performance during the 1973 Yom Kippur War, and served with Israel until 1978. Some of the single seat variants of the Nesher found a new owner in Argentina. Many were refurbished and then sold, serving in the Argentinian Air Force until 2015 under the name "Dagger".
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]], the Nesher flies like any other early Mirage. It is a fast plane with good AOA and agility as long as it has enough speed. Compared to the Shahak, the Nesher is capable of carrying enough ground ordnance to destroy a full base, however CAS duties are not recommended since the aircraft lacks any sort of ballistic computer. It has two hardpoints for air-to-air missiles, the AIM-9G being the most capable option at the end of the modifications tree. While the armament is nothing special for its BR, it compensates most of its flaws with good flight performance. It features 2 x DEFA 30 mm cannons that are very easy to aim, and when the missiles are used against enemies with no flares they are very hard to dodge. The most important thing about the Nesher is the speed, since it lacks flares, staying around Mach 1 is crucial to staying alive, even more when fighting enemies like the A-10, Su-25, or MiG-21SMT.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
The Nesher is a very fast and agile aircraft like many other delta wing fighters. However, it lags behind in terms of manoeuvrability compared to other jets of the Mirage family. But even with that, it has a good acceleration even when fully loaded when using the afterburner and is very fast at high altitudes, being capable of outmatching other fighters around its BR with ease.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at _,___ m)
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 12,000 m)
 
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| ___ || ___ || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | ___
+
| 2,090 || 2,052 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 29.5 || 30.6 || 109.9 || 99.9 || rowspan="2" | 750
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 2,227 || 2,160 || 26.2 || 28.0 || 172.4 || 140.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
−
| _ || _ || _ || _ || _ || _     <!-- ✓ -->
+
| X || X || X || ✓ || X || ✓     <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ || ___ || ___ || ~__ || ~__
+
| 1,460 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~10 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || N/A
+
| < 920 || < 750 || < 650 || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine
 
! colspan="3" | Engine
−
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
+
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
−
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
+
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="2" | _____ || _
+
| colspan="2" | SNECMA Atar 9C || 1
−
| colspan="2" | _,___ kg || colspan="2" | ___ kg/m<sup>2</sup>
+
| colspan="2" | 7,290 kg || colspan="3" | 307 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
−
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
+
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
−
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel
+
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 37m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ___ kg || colspan="2" | ___
+
| 1,450 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
−
| _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg
+
| 8,028 kg || 8,617 kg || 9,280 kg || 9,750 kg || _,___ kg
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
−
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (___%/WEP)
+
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Condition || 100% || ___%/WEP
+
! Condition || 100% || WEP
−
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel || MTOW
+
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 37m fuel || MTOW
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Stationary'' || ___ kgf || ___ kgf
+
| ''Stationary'' || 4,210 kgf || 6,110 kgf
−
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
+
| 0.76 || 0.71 || 0.66 || 0.63 || _.__
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Optimal'' || ___ kgf<br>(_ km/h) || ___ kgf<br>(_ km/h)
+
| ''Optimal'' || 5,389 kgf<br>(1,200 km/h) || 8,594 kgf<br>(1,200 km/h)
−
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
+
| 1.07 || 1.00 || 0.93 || 0.88 || _.__
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
−
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
The Nesher has no armour and can be critically damaged with just one short burst of enemy fire. Even if the Nesher survives, it will be highly damaged and some major components like the elevator or aileron controls will likely be destroyed. The Nesher has self-sealing fuel tanks located in the rear, front part of the wings, and the forward fuselage.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 2 x 30 mm DEFA 552A cannons, belly-mounted (125 rpg = 250 total)
+
* 2 x 30 mm DEFA 552A cannons, belly-mounted (140 rpg = 280 total)
 +
 
 +
The twin 30 mm are a great tool to use for intercepting close range enemy aircraft. The 30 mm are also mounted centrally, making it easier to aim without having to level out your wings to fire. The DEFA 30 mm will make short work of any aircraft attempting to dogfight, though their slow velocity and rate of fire can make it difficult to hit the target.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|250/50 kg G.P. (250 kg)|M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|500/50 kg G.P. (500 kg)}}
 
−
{{main|LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|FFAR Mighty Mouse|Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP|M61 (20 mm)}}
 
−
{{main|AIM-9D Sidewinder|AIM-9G Sidewinder|Shafrir 2}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* Without load
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
 +
| rowspan="13" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[GAU-4 (20 mm)|20 mm GAU-4]] cannons (1,200 rpg)
 +
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
 +
| || 2, 3 || 1 || 5 || 1 || 2, 3 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[SAMP Mk 82 250 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb SAMP Mk 82 250 Snakeye]] bombs
 +
| || 3 || 1 || 5 || 1 || 3 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
 +
| || 2, 2 || 1 || || 1 || 2, 2 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
 +
| || 2 || 1 || || 1 || 2 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
 +
| || 38 || || || || 38 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
 +
| || 8 || || || || 8 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AIM-9D Sidewinder]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[AIM-9G Sidewinder]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[Shafrir 2]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! 880 l drop tanks
 +
| || || || 1 || || ||
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 880 l drop tank
 
* 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles
 
* 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
−
* 14 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (7,000 lb total)
+
* 11 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (5,500 lb total)
−
* 14 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles (7,000 lb total)
+
* 13 x 500 lb SAMP Mk 82 250 Snakeye bombs (6,500 lb total)
−
* 14 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles (7,000 lb total)
+
* 6 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (6,000 lb total)
−
* 14 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles (7,000 lb total)
+
* 6 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (4,500 lb total)
−
* 7 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (7,000 lb total)
 
−
* 7 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles (7,000 lb total)
 
−
* 7 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles (7,000 lb total)
 
−
* 7 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles (7,000 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (6,000 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles (6,000 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles (6,000 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles (6,000 lb total)
 
 
* 2 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (4,000 lb total)
 
* 2 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (4,000 lb total)
−
* 2 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles (4,000 lb total)
+
* 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total)
−
* 2 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles (4,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles (4,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x 20 mm M61 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total)
 
−
* 2 x 20 mm M61 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total) + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles
 
−
* 2 x 20 mm M61 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total) + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 2 x 20 mm M61 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total) + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
 
 
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
 
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
−
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles
 
−
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
 
 
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
−
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles
+
{{Navigation-End}}
−
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
+
 
−
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
+
'''Shafrir 2'''
−
* 2 x 500 kg 500/50 kg G.P. bombs + 6 x 250 kg 250/50 kg G.P. bombs (2,500 kg total)
+
 
−
* 2 x 500 kg 500/50 kg G.P. bombs + 6 x 250 kg 250/50 kg G.P. bombs + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles (2,500 kg total)
+
The Shafrir 2 is a missile comparable to AIM-9D, although it has an uncaged seeker that can be used best at shorter ranges. When it comes to burn time, range, acceleration and G-tolerance, both missiles are comparable.
−
* 2 x 500 kg 500/50 kg G.P. bombs + 6 x 250 kg 250/50 kg G.P. bombs + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles (2,500 kg total)
+
 
−
* 2 x 500 kg 500/50 kg G.P. bombs + 6 x 250 kg 250/50 kg G.P. bombs + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles (2,500 kg total)
+
'''AIM-9D'''
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets (4,000 lb total)
+
 
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles (4,000 lb total)
+
The AIM-9D is a missile really almost identical to the Shafrir 2. However, it has a caged seeker, greatly narrowing the missile's cone of attack. Having a great range, it's best used at longer distances, 2.5 km all the way up to 4 km. It's best to keep in mind that poor flare resistance can be a detriment at higher BRs.
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles (4,000 lb total)
+
 
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles (4,000 lb total)
+
'''AIM-9G'''
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets (4,000 lb total)
+
 
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles (4,000 lb total)
+
Although it has less explosive mass than the AIM-9D, the upgraded seeker of the AIM-9G makes target tracking easier, as well as having a larger lock angle, and the ability to slave the seeker to a radar lock. It retains the same excellent range and manoeuvrability of the AIM-9D, along with similar susceptibility to flares.
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles (4,000 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles (4,000 lb total)
 
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
The Nesher is a very interesting fighter. It has a similar flight performance to the Mirage 5F and the Mirage III but lacks some of the electronics and missiles that make those jets very competitive in aggressive fights.
 +
 
 +
Because of that, and its lack of countermeasures, the Nesher's most important asset is retaining its speed. Since is a very fast aircraft, it is better used in a support role or doing passes around the map at high speeds, launching the missiles at priority targets that might be a threat to the Nesher or to save an ally from death. This good use of its ammunition is extremely important since the Nesher can only carry a maximum of 2 AAMs, one on each wing. Its guns, while great and easy to aim, have a low muzzle velocity and work better at low speeds when it is easier to point the nose of the aircraft in the desired direction. But since they are 30 mm cannons, they will destroy any aircraft with a small burst, making them very reliable.
 +
 
 +
Going for ground bases is a good option in the Nesher. Compared to the Shahak, the Nesher is capable of carrying enough bombs to destroy a full base and still carry 2 missiles for air-to-air combat. When doing this, flying at medium altitudes and then diving to the bases is very important to stay alive, because when flying to close to the ground the enemy SPAA around the map can easily destroy or severely damage your aircraft. At the moment of approaching the base, it is important to go in a dive or lower your altitude closer to the ground because the Nesher has no ballistic computer at all. Once the bombs are dropped, the Nesher may be capable of playing aggressive in the middle of the match, since at that point most fights would have already started and enemies would be distracted. Thus climbing to high altitudes or playing too cautiously may result in a defeat, since your allies would need you helping in the fight.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
−
''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
*
+
* Upgraded engine over other Mirage variants
 +
* Good turn rate making it very manoeuvrable
 +
* Decent variety of ground ordnance
 +
* Able to carry 2 x 20 mm M61 Vulcan gunpods
 +
* Good speed and acceleration when upgraded
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
*
+
* No countermeasures or RWR
 +
* Bleeds a lot of speed in turn fighting, or high angles of attack
 +
* Can only 2 AAMs
 +
* No ballistic computer
 +
* Poor acceleration and cruise speed when stock
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
−
''The IAI Nesher is a multi-role jet aircraft made and produced by Israeli Aircraft Industries as a modified Dassault Mirage 5. After suffering air losses during the Six-Day War, and the War of Attrition in the late 1960s, Israel was seeking to develop a new multi-role capable jet aircraft. Before the war, Israel began co-development with Dassault Aviation in France to build the Mirage 5, and it was eventually built by Israel and named Nesher (Hebrew: נשר). In January 1969, the French authorities hands embargo on Israel due to the raid on Lebanon avoided the first 30 Mirage 5 aircraft which have been already paid for by Israel. The raid also caused the French to stop aiding the Israelis on their current [[Mirage IIICJ]] fleet. This was a setback for Israel prompting them to continue development on the Nesher on their own with the help of some Swiss engineers who had the technical specifications of the Mirage 5.''
 
  
−
''Production started in 1969 on the first empty airframes with no weapons, electronics, seat, or engine included, delivered without delay from Dassault Aviation. The first 'Raam A' was once delivered in May 1971. In November of 1971, the newly modified aircraft was renamed Nesher. The new Nesher's airframe was almost identical to the Mirage 5, but fitted with Israeli avionics, improved range and a wider range of AAMs, and an ejection seat. The much simpler avionics made it somewhat easier to fly for many new aviators. The Nesher was slightly less maneuverable than the [[Mirage IIICJ]], but it had a larger payload and longer range. The reduced maneuverability did not stop the Nesher from exceeding in the Yom Kippur War of 1973 downing more than 100 enemy aircraft in the war proving the Nesher a true killer aircraft.''
+
During the first two decades of its existence, the State of Israel developed a close technological alliance with the Republic of France. The primary expression of this alliance was the large-scale export of military aircraft from France to Israel, including the [[M.D.450B Ouragan (Israel)|Ouragan]], [[Vautour IIA (Israel)|Vautour]] and [[Mystere IVA (Israel)|Mystere]]. By 1965, France had helped turn the Israeli Air Force (IAF) from an improvised World War II-era operation into one of the most formidable, high-tech, jet-equipped air forces in the world. This cooperation reached its zenith in the early 1960s with the adoption of the [[Shahak|Mirage III]] as Israel's primary fighter jet.
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[[File:Nesher526.jpg|frame|441x441px|An IAI Nesher '526' flying over the Sinai]]
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''51 Nesher's were built, and 10 two-seat trainer aircraft were also built. Production stopped in 1974, for the Israelis to build their next air superiority fighter, the Kifir (Lion Cub) or Kifir C.7. The Nesher was later retired from the Israeli Air Force in 1977. After a good lifetime serving the Israeli Air Force, many Nesher's were refurbished, and sold to Argentina, and operate in their air force, later renaming it the "Dagger" and not retiring them until 2015!''
+
Cooperation was so tight, in fact, that Israeli engineers were heavily involved in the development of an advanced successor to the Mirage III - the Dassault Mirage 5 - which was designed according to Israeli Air Force combat experience with the Mirage III and was tailored specifically to their requirements. Israel, still an economically-struggling nation at the time, nevertheless funded a large part of the project by purchasing 30 units of the Mirage 5 in advance of its production, with an option for 20 more.
 +
 
 +
Unfortunately for the Israelis, in 1967 political machinations eventually put an abrupt end to this long period of cooperation. French president De Gaulle, hoping to strengthen relations between France and the Arab states, threatened to embargo all sales of weaponry to Israel in the event that it attacks any of its neighbours. In June of 1967, only two weeks after the Mirage 5 was first test-flown in France, Israel did exactly what it was warned not to do - starting the Six-Day War with a preemptive strike that crippled both the Egyptian and Syrian air forces within hours. The French embargo took effect immediately, halting the sale of Mirage 5s to Israel. Following the war, attempts were made by Israel to convince France to drop the embargo. Instead, the situation further deteriorated when, in January of 1969, an Israeli raid on the international airport in Beirut caused the French to expand their embargo by forbidding the sale of spare parts for military aircraft. This was the final nail in the coffin of the Mirage 5 deal. Israel was eventually reimbursed for all 50 planes it had paid for, and those planes instead joined the French air force.
 +
 
 +
The Israeli Air Force now had a whole fleet of French jets that it could no longer hope to maintain. With Israeli-American military cooperation still in its infancy, the Israelis had to urgently find a reliable source of new fighter jets to replace the Mirage IIIs. Fortunately for them, the owner and CEO of Dassault Aviation, Marcel Dassault (himself a Holocaust survivor), was adamant to circumvent the French embargo by any means necessary. With the French government essentially turning a blind eye, he smuggled schematics, parts, and engines from the Mirage 5 project to Israel, and even gave several high-ranking Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI) executives a thorough, clandestine tour of the Mirage 5 factories in France. With these materials and know-how, the IAI was now able to build its own factories to produce what was essentially an exact copy of the Mirage 5 - with a few minor changes to make it compatible with Israeli munitions and requirements.
 +
 
 +
The new model was named the ''Nesher'' ("Griffon Vulture"). Production started in 1969 on the first empty airframes. The weapons, electronics, seats and engines were smuggled from Dassault shortly afterwards. The first operational plane was delivered to the IAF in May 1971. Unlike the Mirage 5, the Nesher was fitted with Israeli-made avionics, improved range, an ejection seat, and additional hardpoints compatible with a wider range of AAMs including the American [[AIM-9D Sidewinder]] and the Israeli [[Shafrir 2]]. The avionics were made simpler to operate, making the plane more forgiving to rookie pilots.
 +
 
 +
The Nesher was slightly less manoeuvrable than the [[Shahak]] it was meant to replace, but it had a larger payload and longer range. The reduced manoeuvrability did not stop the Nesher from excelling during the Yom Kippur War of 1973, where it achieved an incredible kill-to-loss ratio of 111:3, primarily against [[MiG-19 (Family)|MiG-19s]] and [[MiG-21 (Family)|MiG-21s]].
 +
 
 +
Between 1971 and 1974, a total of 51 single-seat Neshers were built for combat operations, as well as 10 two-seat trainers. Production gradually stopped in 1974 as IAI factories switched over to the new Israeli Mirage variant - the [[Kfir C.7|Kfir]]. The Nesher was gradually retired from service starting in 1978. After a good lifetime serving the Israeli Air Force, many Neshers were refurbished and sold to Argentina's air force, where it was renamed the "Dagger". These aircraft retired from service as late as 2015.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
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''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
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;Skins
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=nesher Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
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''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
  
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* [[wikipedia:IAI_Nesher|[Wikipedia] - IAI Nesher]]
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* ''other literature.''
 
  
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{{AirManufacturer IAI}}
 
{{Israel jet aircraft}}
 
{{Israel jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 17:09, 21 June 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
Nesher
nesher.png
GarageImage Nesher.jpg
Nesher
Israel flag.png Israel
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.3 10.0 10.0
Class:
Research:260 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:710 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Nesher was meant to replace the Shahak in the IAF. It started as a hidden project, basically as a copy of the French Mirage 5 to avoid the embargo imposed over Israel during the Six-Day War. The aircraft started production in Israel in 1969, with a few changes to the design and electronics to suit Israeli needs more precisely. With the help of Dassault Aviation, different parts were smuggled into Israel. It featured Israeli-made avionics, compatibility with Shafrir 2 and AIM-9D AAMs, better range, and an ejection seat. The aircraft showed good performance during the 1973 Yom Kippur War, and served with Israel until 1978. Some of the single seat variants of the Nesher found a new owner in Argentina. Many were refurbished and then sold, serving in the Argentinian Air Force until 2015 under the name "Dagger".

Introduced in Update "Winged Lions", the Nesher flies like any other early Mirage. It is a fast plane with good AOA and agility as long as it has enough speed. Compared to the Shahak, the Nesher is capable of carrying enough ground ordnance to destroy a full base, however CAS duties are not recommended since the aircraft lacks any sort of ballistic computer. It has two hardpoints for air-to-air missiles, the AIM-9G being the most capable option at the end of the modifications tree. While the armament is nothing special for its BR, it compensates most of its flaws with good flight performance. It features 2 x DEFA 30 mm cannons that are very easy to aim, and when the missiles are used against enemies with no flares they are very hard to dodge. The most important thing about the Nesher is the speed, since it lacks flares, staying around Mach 1 is crucial to staying alive, even more when fighting enemies like the A-10, Su-25, or MiG-21SMT.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 12 000 m2 160 km/h
Turn time28 s
Max altitude16 000 m
EngineSNECMA Atar 9C
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight11 t

The Nesher is a very fast and agile aircraft like many other delta wing fighters. However, it lags behind in terms of manoeuvrability compared to other jets of the Mirage family. But even with that, it has a good acceleration even when fully loaded when using the afterburner and is very fast at high altitudes, being capable of outmatching other fighters around its BR with ease.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 12,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 2,090 2,052 16000 29.5 30.6 109.9 99.9 750
Upgraded 2,227 2,160 26.2 28.0 172.4 140.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X X X ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1,460 426 N/A N/A N/A ~10 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 920 < 750 < 650 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
SNECMA Atar 9C 1 7,290 kg 307 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 11m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 37m fuel
1,450 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 8,028 kg 8,617 kg 9,280 kg 9,750 kg _,___ kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 11m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 37m fuel MTOW
Stationary 4,210 kgf 6,110 kgf 0.76 0.71 0.66 0.63 _.__
Optimal 5,389 kgf
(1,200 km/h) 		8,594 kgf
(1,200 km/h) 		1.07 1.00 0.93 0.88 _.__

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear426 km/h

The Nesher has no armour and can be critically damaged with just one short burst of enemy fire. Even if the Nesher survives, it will be highly damaged and some major components like the elevator or aileron controls will likely be destroyed. The Nesher has self-sealing fuel tanks located in the rear, front part of the wings, and the forward fuselage.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 089 → 4 154 Sl icon.png
RB11 211 → 15 078 Sl icon.png
SB10 362 → 13 936 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications227 500 Rp icon.png
350 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 800 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 000 Sl icon.png
Experts710 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 800 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 080 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 380 / 600 % Sl icon.png
232 / 232 / 232 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
aden_belt_pack
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk82
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
LAU-3/A
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
aden_new_gun
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M117
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods gunpods.png
Gun pod SUU-23/A.
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk83
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket large.png
LAU-10/A
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
M60_belt_pack
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk84
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9G
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: DEFA 552A (30 mm)

The Nesher is armed with:

  • 2 x 30 mm DEFA 552A cannons, belly-mounted (140 rpg = 280 total)

The twin 30 mm are a great tool to use for intercepting close range enemy aircraft. The 30 mm are also mounted centrally, making it easier to aim without having to level out your wings to fire. The DEFA 30 mm will make short work of any aircraft attempting to dogfight, though their slow velocity and rate of fire can make it difficult to hit the target.

Suspended armament

The Nesher can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Hardpoints Nesher.png
20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg) 1 1
500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs 2, 3 1 5 1 2, 3
500 lb SAMP Mk 82 250 Snakeye bombs 3 1 5 1 3
750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs 2, 2 1 1 2, 2
1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs 2 1 1 2
2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs 1 1
FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets 38 38
Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets 8 8
AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles 1 1
AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles 1 1
Shafrir 2 missiles 1 1
880 l drop tanks 1
Default weapon presets
  • 1 x 880 l drop tank
  • 2 x Shafrir 2 missiles
  • 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
  • 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
  • 11 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (5,500 lb total)
  • 13 x 500 lb SAMP Mk 82 250 Snakeye bombs (6,500 lb total)
  • 6 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (6,000 lb total)
  • 6 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (4,500 lb total)
  • 2 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (4,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total)
  • 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
  • 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets

Shafrir 2

The Shafrir 2 is a missile comparable to AIM-9D, although it has an uncaged seeker that can be used best at shorter ranges. When it comes to burn time, range, acceleration and G-tolerance, both missiles are comparable.

AIM-9D

The AIM-9D is a missile really almost identical to the Shafrir 2. However, it has a caged seeker, greatly narrowing the missile's cone of attack. Having a great range, it's best used at longer distances, 2.5 km all the way up to 4 km. It's best to keep in mind that poor flare resistance can be a detriment at higher BRs.

AIM-9G

Although it has less explosive mass than the AIM-9D, the upgraded seeker of the AIM-9G makes target tracking easier, as well as having a larger lock angle, and the ability to slave the seeker to a radar lock. It retains the same excellent range and manoeuvrability of the AIM-9D, along with similar susceptibility to flares.

Usage in battles

The Nesher is a very interesting fighter. It has a similar flight performance to the Mirage 5F and the Mirage III but lacks some of the electronics and missiles that make those jets very competitive in aggressive fights.

Because of that, and its lack of countermeasures, the Nesher's most important asset is retaining its speed. Since is a very fast aircraft, it is better used in a support role or doing passes around the map at high speeds, launching the missiles at priority targets that might be a threat to the Nesher or to save an ally from death. This good use of its ammunition is extremely important since the Nesher can only carry a maximum of 2 AAMs, one on each wing. Its guns, while great and easy to aim, have a low muzzle velocity and work better at low speeds when it is easier to point the nose of the aircraft in the desired direction. But since they are 30 mm cannons, they will destroy any aircraft with a small burst, making them very reliable.

Going for ground bases is a good option in the Nesher. Compared to the Shahak, the Nesher is capable of carrying enough bombs to destroy a full base and still carry 2 missiles for air-to-air combat. When doing this, flying at medium altitudes and then diving to the bases is very important to stay alive, because when flying to close to the ground the enemy SPAA around the map can easily destroy or severely damage your aircraft. At the moment of approaching the base, it is important to go in a dive or lower your altitude closer to the ground because the Nesher has no ballistic computer at all. Once the bombs are dropped, the Nesher may be capable of playing aggressive in the middle of the match, since at that point most fights would have already started and enemies would be distracted. Thus climbing to high altitudes or playing too cautiously may result in a defeat, since your allies would need you helping in the fight.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Upgraded engine over other Mirage variants
  • Good turn rate making it very manoeuvrable
  • Decent variety of ground ordnance
  • Able to carry 2 x 20 mm M61 Vulcan gunpods
  • Good speed and acceleration when upgraded

Cons:

  • No countermeasures or RWR
  • Bleeds a lot of speed in turn fighting, or high angles of attack
  • Can only 2 AAMs
  • No ballistic computer
  • Poor acceleration and cruise speed when stock

History

During the first two decades of its existence, the State of Israel developed a close technological alliance with the Republic of France. The primary expression of this alliance was the large-scale export of military aircraft from France to Israel, including the Ouragan, Vautour and Mystere. By 1965, France had helped turn the Israeli Air Force (IAF) from an improvised World War II-era operation into one of the most formidable, high-tech, jet-equipped air forces in the world. This cooperation reached its zenith in the early 1960s with the adoption of the Mirage III as Israel's primary fighter jet.

Cooperation was so tight, in fact, that Israeli engineers were heavily involved in the development of an advanced successor to the Mirage III - the Dassault Mirage 5 - which was designed according to Israeli Air Force combat experience with the Mirage III and was tailored specifically to their requirements. Israel, still an economically-struggling nation at the time, nevertheless funded a large part of the project by purchasing 30 units of the Mirage 5 in advance of its production, with an option for 20 more.

Unfortunately for the Israelis, in 1967 political machinations eventually put an abrupt end to this long period of cooperation. French president De Gaulle, hoping to strengthen relations between France and the Arab states, threatened to embargo all sales of weaponry to Israel in the event that it attacks any of its neighbours. In June of 1967, only two weeks after the Mirage 5 was first test-flown in France, Israel did exactly what it was warned not to do - starting the Six-Day War with a preemptive strike that crippled both the Egyptian and Syrian air forces within hours. The French embargo took effect immediately, halting the sale of Mirage 5s to Israel. Following the war, attempts were made by Israel to convince France to drop the embargo. Instead, the situation further deteriorated when, in January of 1969, an Israeli raid on the international airport in Beirut caused the French to expand their embargo by forbidding the sale of spare parts for military aircraft. This was the final nail in the coffin of the Mirage 5 deal. Israel was eventually reimbursed for all 50 planes it had paid for, and those planes instead joined the French air force.

The Israeli Air Force now had a whole fleet of French jets that it could no longer hope to maintain. With Israeli-American military cooperation still in its infancy, the Israelis had to urgently find a reliable source of new fighter jets to replace the Mirage IIIs. Fortunately for them, the owner and CEO of Dassault Aviation, Marcel Dassault (himself a Holocaust survivor), was adamant to circumvent the French embargo by any means necessary. With the French government essentially turning a blind eye, he smuggled schematics, parts, and engines from the Mirage 5 project to Israel, and even gave several high-ranking Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI) executives a thorough, clandestine tour of the Mirage 5 factories in France. With these materials and know-how, the IAI was now able to build its own factories to produce what was essentially an exact copy of the Mirage 5 - with a few minor changes to make it compatible with Israeli munitions and requirements.

The new model was named the Nesher ("Griffon Vulture"). Production started in 1969 on the first empty airframes. The weapons, electronics, seats and engines were smuggled from Dassault shortly afterwards. The first operational plane was delivered to the IAF in May 1971. Unlike the Mirage 5, the Nesher was fitted with Israeli-made avionics, improved range, an ejection seat, and additional hardpoints compatible with a wider range of AAMs including the American AIM-9D Sidewinder and the Israeli Shafrir 2. The avionics were made simpler to operate, making the plane more forgiving to rookie pilots.

The Nesher was slightly less manoeuvrable than the Shahak it was meant to replace, but it had a larger payload and longer range. The reduced manoeuvrability did not stop the Nesher from excelling during the Yom Kippur War of 1973, where it achieved an incredible kill-to-loss ratio of 111:3, primarily against MiG-19s and MiG-21s.

Between 1971 and 1974, a total of 51 single-seat Neshers were built for combat operations, as well as 10 two-seat trainers. Production gradually stopped in 1974 as IAI factories switched over to the new Israeli Mirage variant - the Kfir. The Nesher was gradually retired from service starting in 1978. After a good lifetime serving the Israeli Air Force, many Neshers were refurbished and sold to Argentina's air force, where it was renamed the "Dagger". These aircraft retired from service as late as 2015.

Media

Skins

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


Israel Aerospace Industries (התעשייה האווירית לישראל)
Jet Fighters  Nesher · Kfir Canard · Kfir C.2 · Kfir C.7
SPAAs  Machbet

Israel jet aircraft
  Kfir Canard · Kfir C.2 · Kfir C.7 · Nesher
Britain 
Meteor  Meteor NF.13 · Meteor F.8
France 
Vautour  Vautour IIA · Vautour IIN
Super Mystere  Sambad · Sa'ar
Mirage III  Shahak
Other  M.D.450B Ouragan · Mystere IVA
USA 
F-84  F-84F
A-4  A-4H · A-4E Early (M) · A-4E · Ayit
F-4  Kurnass · Kurnass 2000
F-15  Baz · Baz Meshupar · F-15I Ra’am
F-16  Netz · F-16C Barak II · F-16D Barak II

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