IAR 99: Difference between revisions
Change infobox image, add Farnborough image |
|||
(27 intermediate revisions by 23 users not shown) | |||
Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Short description|Romanian trainer/light attack aircraft}} |
|||
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. --> |
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. --> |
||
{{Infobox aircraft |
|||
| name= IAR 99 |
| name= IAR 99 |
||
| image= IAR-99 Soim |
| image= File:Romanian Air Force IAR-99 Soim 100th anniversary of aviation colours.jpg |
||
| caption= IAR 99 of the [[Romanian Air Force]] |
| caption= IAR 99 of the [[Romanian Air Force]] |
||
}}{{Infobox aircraft type |
|||
| type= [[Trainer (aircraft)#Advanced training|Advanced trainer]] and [[attack aircraft|light attack aircraft]] |
| type= [[Trainer (aircraft)#Advanced training|Advanced trainer]] and [[attack aircraft|light attack aircraft]] |
||
| |
| national_origin= Romania |
||
| manufacturer= [[Avioane Craiova]] |
| manufacturer= [[Avioane Craiova]] |
||
| |
| first_flight= 21 December 1985 |
||
| |
| introduction= 1987 |
||
| retired= |
| retired= |
||
| status= In service |
| status= In service |
||
| |
| primary_user= [[Romanian Air Force]] |
||
| produced= 1985–2008 |
| produced= 1985–2008 |
||
| number_built= 28 (25 Șoim/C 3 prototip) |
|||
| number built= 25 |
|||
| |
| developed_from= |
||
| variants |
| variants= |
||
}} |
}} |
||
|} |
|||
The '''IAR 99 Șoim''' (''Hawk'') is an [[trainer (aircraft)#Advanced training|advanced trainer]] and [[attack aircraft|light attack aircraft]] capable of performing [[close air support]] and [[reconnaissance]] missions. The IAR 99 replaced the [[Aero L-29 Delfin]] and [[Aero L-39 Albatros]] as the jet trainer of the [[Romanian Air Force]]. The aircraft is of [[semi-monocoque]] design, with tapered wings and a swept-back tail unit. A large blade-type antenna installed beneath the nose on the port side of the fuselage gives the IAR 99 trainer a distinctive appearance. |
The '''IAR 99'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Avioane IAR 99 Soim (Hawk) |url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.php?aircraft_id=995 |access-date=2023-05-04 |website=www.militaryfactory.com}}</ref> '''Șoim''' (''Hawk'') is an [[trainer (aircraft)#Advanced training|advanced trainer]] and [[attack aircraft|light attack aircraft]] capable of performing [[close air support]] and [[reconnaissance]] missions. The IAR 99 replaced the [[Aero L-29 Delfin]] and [[Aero L-39 Albatros]] as the jet trainer of the [[Romanian Air Force]]. The aircraft is of [[semi-monocoque]] design, with tapered wings and a swept-back tail unit. A large blade-type antenna installed beneath the nose on the port side of the fuselage gives the IAR 99 trainer a distinctive appearance. |
||
==Development== |
==Development== |
||
The design of the aircraft started in 1975 and this would be the first jet trainer fully designed and built in [[Romania]]. In 1979 funding was approved for building the first trainer by [[Avioane Craiova SA|I.Av. Craiova]] where the [[IAR 93]] attack aircraft was currently built. The prototype (S-001) flew on 21 December 1985 with Lt. Col. Vagner Ștefănel at the controls.<ref name="Falcon">''Air International'' September 1990, pp. 129–133.</ref> S-002 served for static (ground) testing, S-003 being the second flying prototype (later re-serialled 7003). |
The design of the aircraft started in 1975 and this would be the first jet trainer fully designed and built in [[Romania]]. In 1979 funding was approved for building the first trainer by [[Avioane Craiova SA|I.Av. Craiova]] where the [[IAR 93]] attack aircraft was currently built. The prototype (S-001) flew on 21 December 1985 with Lt. Col. Vagner Ștefănel at the controls.<ref name="Falcon">''Air International'' September 1990, pp. 129–133.</ref> S-002 served for static (ground) testing, S-003 being the second flying prototype (later re-serialled 7003). |
||
The aircraft entered series production in 1987, with 17 aircraft delivered to the [[Romanian Air Force]] by 1989. Two were lost in the 1990s (numbers 710 and 714). |
The aircraft entered series production in 1987, with 17 aircraft delivered to the [[Romanian Air Force]] by 1989. Two were lost in the 1990s (numbers 710 and 714). |
||
In 1990 the fall of the Eastern Bloc created new export opportunities for the aircraft, but while the aircraft had excellent aerodynamic and handling qualities, it was left behind in its class because of its obsolete [[avionics]], with upgrading becoming a priority. |
In 1990 the fall of the Eastern Bloc created new export opportunities for the aircraft, but while the aircraft had excellent aerodynamic and handling qualities, it was left behind in its class because of its obsolete [[avionics]], with upgrading becoming a priority. |
||
[[File:708 IAR IAR-99 Soim Romanian Air Force. (5644145713).jpg|thumb |
[[File:708 IAR IAR-99 Soim Romanian Air Force. (5644145713).jpg|thumb|IAR 99 at Farnborough]] |
||
⚫ | The first upgrade attempt was made in 1990 by I.Av.Craiova together with the Texas-based Jaffe Aircraft Corporation. Aircraft 708 and 709<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vlad|first=Ing. Dănuț|date=2015-12-21|title=IAR-99 – 30 de ani de la primul zbor|url=https://www.resboiu.ro/iar-99-soim-30-de-ani-de-la-primul-zbor/|url-status=live|archive-url= |
||
⚫ | The first upgrade attempt was made in 1990 by I.Av.Craiova together with the Texas-based Jaffe Aircraft Corporation. Aircraft 708 and 709<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vlad|first=Ing. Dănuț|date=2015-12-21|title=IAR-99 – 30 de ani de la primul zbor|url=https://www.resboiu.ro/iar-99-soim-30-de-ani-de-la-primul-zbor/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024084454/https://www.resboiu.ro/iar-99-soim-30-de-ani-de-la-primul-zbor/|archive-date=2020-10-24|access-date=2021-03-08|website=Resboiu}}</ref> were modified by installing [[Honeywell]] avionics, while the [[canopy (aircraft)|canopy]] was changed to a two-piece design instead of the original one piece. This change would be retained for all subsequent aircraft. 708 took its first flight on August 8, 1990, followed by 709 on August 22. The aircraft were displayed at the 1990 [[Farnborough Airshow]], being proposed for the [[Joint Primary Aircraft Training System]] program for the United States of America, although this work resulted in no orders. In 1991, aircraft number 712 was outfitted with Collins avionics and took part in a show in [[Ankara]], Turkey. |
||
⚫ | |||
⚫ | |||
In 1996 the upgrade program of the IAR 99 was revived with the need for a lead-in trainer for the newly upgraded [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21|MiG-21]] Lancer. The Israeli company [[Elbit]] was chosen as an integrator. The avionics package is compatible with 5th generation fighter systems and it is inspired by the MiG-21 Lancer upgrade but adapted to IAR 99 needs. The first upgraded IAR 99 was the 18th production aircraft (number 718), which performed its first flight on 22 May 1997.<ref name="ACV">{{Cite web |url=http://www.acv.ro/products_en.php?m=1&s=1 |title=IAR 99 SOIM History |access-date=2009-09-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724203354/http://www.acv.ro/products_en.php?m=1&s=1 |archive-date=2011-07-24 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The upgraded IAR 99 was displayed at Paris in 1997 and Farnborough in 1998. |
|||
On 6 August 1998, the Romanian Government approved the introduction into series production of the upgrade program for 24 IAR-99 Șoim out of which 4 were supposed to be delivered by 2001. The Romanian [[Ministry of National Defence (Romania)|Ministry of National Defence]] signs a contract for those 24 aircraft on 20 April 2000, reducing that number to 12 on 14 December 2000<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last=Leoveanu|first=Grigore|date=2014-12-10|title=Programul IAR 99 - Scurt Istoric|url=https://iar99soim.blogspot.com/2014/12/programul-iar-99-scurt-istoric.html|url-status=live|archive-url= |
In 1996 the upgrade program of the IAR 99 was revived with the need for a lead-in trainer for the newly upgraded [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21|MiG-21]] Lancer. The Israeli company [[Elbit]] was chosen as an integrator. The avionics package is compatible with 5th generation fighter systems and it is inspired by the MiG-21 Lancer upgrade but adapted to IAR 99 needs. The first upgraded IAR 99 was the 18th production aircraft (number 718), which performed its first flight on 22 May 1997.<ref name="ACV">{{Cite web |url=http://www.acv.ro/products_en.php?m=1&s=1 |title=IAR 99 SOIM History |access-date=2009-09-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724203354/http://www.acv.ro/products_en.php?m=1&s=1 |archive-date=2011-07-24 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The upgraded IAR 99 was displayed at Paris in 1997 and Farnborough in 1998. |
||
On 6 August 1998, the Romanian Government approved the introduction into series production of the upgrade program for 24 IAR-99 Șoim out of which 4 were supposed to be delivered by 2001. The Romanian [[Ministry of National Defence (Romania)|Ministry of National Defence]] signs a contract for those 24 aircraft on 20 April 2000, reducing that number to 12 on 14 December 2000.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last=Leoveanu|first=Grigore|date=2014-12-10|title=Programul IAR 99 - Scurt Istoric|url=https://iar99soim.blogspot.com/2014/12/programul-iar-99-scurt-istoric.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127210056/https://iar99soim.blogspot.com/2014/12/programul-iar-99-scurt-istoric.html|archive-date=2020-11-27|access-date=2021-03-08|website=IAR99SOIM}}</ref> Only seven of these are to be new-built (numbers 719–725), and five upgraded from existing IAR 99 (numbers 709, 711, 712, 713, 717). These were delivered between 2003 and 2008,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Ștefănescu|first=Ioan|date=2012-06-01|title=S.C. Advanced Training Aircraft IAR 99 (A) SOIM|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268439711_SC_Advanced_Training_Aircraft_IAR_99_A_SOIM|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308194102/https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268439711_SC_Advanced_Training_Aircraft_IAR_99_A_SOIM|archive-date=2021-03-08|access-date=2021-03-08|website=[[ResearchGate]]}}</ref> gradually replacing the [[Aero L-39 Albatros|L-39 Albatros']] in service with the Romanian Air Force's training school. |
|||
Thus, the Romanian Air Force will have 12 ''IAR 99 C Șoim'' (upgraded) and 11 ''IAR 99 Standard'', with 7003 remaining with [[Avioane Craiova SA]] as demonstrator aircraft. |
Thus, the Romanian Air Force will have 12 ''IAR 99 C Șoim'' (upgraded) and 11 ''IAR 99 Standard'', with 7003 remaining with [[Avioane Craiova SA]] as demonstrator aircraft. |
||
In 2015, a consortium composed of [[Avioane Craiova]], {{abbr|INCAS| The romanian institute for research in aeronautics and space}} and {{abbr|CCIZ| The center for flight research and testing}} announced<ref>{{cite news|title=Avionul românesc IAR 99 TD ar putea zbura la începutul anului 2018|url=https://www.digi24.ro/stiri/actualitate/evenimente/avionul-romanesc-iar-99-td-ar-putea-zbura-la-inceputul-anului-2018-464396|access-date=2021-03-08|archive-url= |
In 2015, a consortium composed of [[Avioane Craiova]], {{abbr|INCAS| The romanian institute for research in aeronautics and space}} and {{abbr|[[Craiova Air Base#Center for Research, Innovation and Flight Tests|CCIZ]]| The center for flight research and testing}} announced<ref>{{cite news|title=Avionul românesc IAR 99 TD ar putea zbura la începutul anului 2018|url=https://www.digi24.ro/stiri/actualitate/evenimente/avionul-romanesc-iar-99-td-ar-putea-zbura-la-inceputul-anului-2018-464396|access-date=2021-03-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308153618/https://www.digi24.ro/stiri/actualitate/evenimente/avionul-romanesc-iar-99-td-ar-putea-zbura-la-inceputul-anului-2018-464396|archive-date=2021-03-08|publisher=[[Digi24]]|date=2015-12-04}}</ref> that an enhanced version of the IAR 99 called IAR 99 TD is under development. A single airframe will be built with a new avionics suite, an engine and radar. The [[Leonardo S.p.A.|Leonardo]] Vixen 500E<ref>{{cite news|title=Leonardo Vixen 500E AESA radar chosen for IAR-99 tech demonstrator|url=https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/vixen-500e|access-date=2021-03-08|publisher=Leonardo S.p.A.|date=2017-08-29}}</ref> radar was chosen and requires lengthening the nose by 900mm. A new engine which supports computer control is required to replace the 1951 designed [[Armstrong Siddeley Viper|Rolls-Royce Viper]]. This in turn will need a twice as big air intake.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Român|first=Cristian|date=2016-06-30|title=Demonstratorul tehnologic IAR 99-TD realizat de INCAS|url=https://stiintasitehnica.com/demonstratorul-tehnologic-iar-99-td-realizat-de-incas/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201205170357/https://stiintasitehnica.com/demonstratorul-tehnologic-iar-99-td-realizat-de-incas/|archive-date=2020-12-05|access-date=2020-03-08|website=Știință & Tehnică}}</ref> A prototype is expected to be completed by 2022.<ref>{{cite news|title=Proiectul IAR-99 TD prezentat la Inventika|url=http://www.rumaniamilitary.ro/proiectul-iar-99-td-prezentat-la-inventika|access-date=March 23, 2015|publisher=Romania Military|date=October 19, 2014}}</ref> |
||
In December 2020, [[Elbit Systems]] announced<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-12-14|title=Elbit Systems Awarded $27 Million Contract to Upgrade Romanian Air Force’s IAR-99 Aircraft|url=https://elbitsystems.com/pr-new/elbit-systems-awarded-27-million-contract-to-upgrade-romanian-air-forces-iar-99-aircraft/ |
In December 2020, [[Elbit Systems]] announced they were awarded the contract to upgrade the remaining 10 IAR 99 Standard airframes in service with the Romanian Air Force.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-12-14|title=Elbit Systems Awarded $27 Million Contract to Upgrade Romanian Air Force’s IAR-99 Aircraft|url=https://elbitsystems.com/pr-new/elbit-systems-awarded-27-million-contract-to-upgrade-romanian-air-forces-iar-99-aircraft/|access-date=2020-03-08|website=[[Elbit Systems]]}}</ref> The upgrade, done by Avioane Craiova, was to be finished by 2024. However, due to several delays, the first aircraft was modernized in December 2023.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.g4media.ro/dupa-o-lunga-intarziere-au-inceput-la-craiova-probele-cu-primul-avion-iar-99-sm-care-a-fost-modernizat.html|title=După o lungă întârziere au început la Craiova probele cu primul avion IAR 99 SM care a fost modernizat|language=ro|work=[[G4Media]]|date=22 December 2023}}</ref> |
||
==Design== |
==Design== |
||
===Cockpit=== |
===Cockpit=== |
||
The aircraft has a tandem-stepped dual-control cockpit equipped with [[Martin-Baker]] Mk 10 [[zero-zero ejection seat]]s. The instructor's seat at the rear position is raised by 35 cm to provide better visibility. The canopy was made as a single piece (prototypes and planes |
The aircraft has a tandem-stepped dual-control cockpit equipped with [[Martin-Baker]] Mk 10 [[zero-zero ejection seat]]s. The instructor's seat at the rear position is raised by 35 cm to provide better visibility. The canopy was made as a single piece (prototypes and planes 701–707), later changed to a two-piece canopy, both opening to the [[starboard]] side. |
||
The cockpit is equipped with HOTAS control and also LCDs (Liquid Crystal Display). Both the pilot and the instructor are equipped with a DASH Display and Sight Helmet which is currently deployed on the [[MiG 21]] Lancer. The helmet guides the onboard weapons systems to the pilot's line of sight. The visor's display confirms when target acquisition has been achieved. The visor also displays the data from the HUD (Head-Up Display). Flight and navigation data are displayed on HUD, on the helmet DASH and MFDC (color multifunction [[Display device|displays]]). |
The cockpit is equipped with HOTAS control and also LCDs (Liquid Crystal Display). Both the pilot and the instructor are equipped with a DASH Display and Sight Helmet which is currently deployed on the [[MiG 21]] Lancer. The helmet guides the onboard weapons systems to the pilot's line of sight. The visor's display confirms when target acquisition has been achieved. The visor also displays the data from the HUD (Head-Up Display). Flight and navigation data are displayed on HUD, on the helmet DASH and MFDC (color multifunction [[Display device|displays]]). |
||
Line 53: | Line 53: | ||
===Avionics=== |
===Avionics=== |
||
[[File:725-Avioane IAR.99C Soim-DSC 3038.JPG|thumb|250px|IAR 99 Șoim]] |
[[File:725-Avioane IAR.99C Soim-DSC 3038.JPG|thumb|250px|IAR 99 Șoim]] |
||
[[Elbit]] is supplying the aircraft's advanced avionics suite installed on a [[MIL-STD-1553]]B data bus. The advanced avionics suite, including communications, navigation, identification systems and the cockpit configuration, are similar to those of the [[MiG 21]] |
[[Elbit]] is supplying the aircraft's advanced avionics suite installed on a [[MIL-STD-1553]]B data bus. The advanced avionics suite, including communications, navigation, identification systems and the cockpit configuration, are similar to those of the [[MiG 21]] LanceR and [[F-16]] fighter aircraft. The IAR 99 is also equipped with video and debriefing systems. |
||
The communication systems include VHF and UHF communications, voice-activated intercom and an [[Identification friend or foe|IFF]] transponder. The flight systems include a VOR/ILS, linked [[VHF]] [[omnidirectional antenna]] radio ranger linked to the [[instrument landing system]]. Other navigation tools include [[distance measuring equipment]] (DME), an [[automatic direction finder]] (ADF), a [[Northrop Grumman]] inertial navigation system and a Trimble [[GPS]] system. |
The communication systems include VHF and UHF communications, voice-activated intercom and an [[Identification friend or foe|IFF]] transponder. The flight systems include a VOR/ILS, linked [[VHF]] [[omnidirectional antenna]] radio ranger linked to the [[instrument landing system]]. Other navigation tools include [[distance measuring equipment]] (DME), an [[automatic direction finder]] (ADF), a [[Northrop Grumman]] inertial navigation system and a Trimble [[GPS]] system. |
||
Line 67: | Line 67: | ||
[[File:IAR 99, number 7003, landing.jpg|thumb|IAR 99, number 7003, landing in 2006. Note below the cockpit, the white bird logo overlapping the yellow "Swift" writing.]] |
[[File:IAR 99, number 7003, landing.jpg|thumb|IAR 99, number 7003, landing in 2006. Note below the cockpit, the white bird logo overlapping the yellow "Swift" writing.]] |
||
; IAR 109 "Swift": In 1992 an upgrade program was started in partnership with [[Israel Aircraft Industries|IAI]] Lahav<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-11-15|title=Románia Solymai - IAR-99/99C Soim|url=https://military-technology.blog.hu/2019/11/15/delkeleti_szomszedunk_solymai_iar-99_99c_soim|url-status=live|archive-url= |
; IAR 109 "Swift": In 1992 an upgrade program was started in partnership with [[Israel Aircraft Industries|IAI]] Lahav<ref>{{Cite web|date= 2019-11-15|title=Románia Solymai - IAR-99/99C Soim | work = Military technology |url= https://military-technology.blog.hu/2019/11/15/delkeleti_szomszedunk_solymai_iar-99_99c_soim|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200925195048/https://military-technology.blog.hu/2019/11/15/delkeleti_szomszedunk_solymai_iar-99_99c_soim |archive-date=2020-09-25|access-date=2021-03-14}}</ref> of [[Israel]], for both [[Romanian Air Force]] use and export.<ref>{{Cite web | work = All the world’s aircraft | publisher = Jane’s |url = http://www.janes.com/articles/Janes-All-the-Worlds-Aircraft/AVIOANE-IAR-109-SWIFT-Romania.html|title=IAR-109 Swift}}</ref> Aircraft number 7003 was equipped with [[HOTAS]] (Hands On Throttle and Stick) controls in both cockpits, a wide-angle HUD ([[Head-Up Display]]) with Up Front Control Panel in the front cockpit, two 3 inch displays in both cockpits, a ring laser gyro [[Inertial Navigation System]] (INS), as well as the integration of both Eastern and Western weapon systems on the aircraft. The aircraft was displayed at the 1993 [[Paris Air Show]]<ref>{{Cite web|date=1993-06-12 |title=IAR 109 Swift 7003 Paris Air Show 1993|url= https://www.flickr.com/photos/emdjt42/4862755758/in/photostream/ |website=[[Flickr]]}}</ref> and flew at [[Asian Aerospace]] in 1994. A prospective sale of 10 aircraft to Botswana<ref>{{Cite web|last=Leoveanu |first=Grigore|title= Cu IAR-ul în… Singapore!!|url= https://www.rumaniamilitary.ro/cu-iar-ul-in-singapore |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210213012943/https://www.rumaniamilitary.ro/cu-iar-ul-in-singapore|archive-date=2021-02-13 |access-date=2021-03-08|website= Romania Military}}</ref> was blocked in parliament, ending the collaboration with IAI. The aircraft was converted back to Standard configuration and delivered to the center for flight research and testing (CCIZ). As late as 2009<ref>{{Cite web |date=2009-08-26|title=IAR-109 Swift |url=https://www.airliners.net/photo/Romania-Air-Force/IAR-IAR-109-Swift/2579976/L|website=[[Airliners.net]]}}</ref> it still retained its "Swift" styled paint scheme and logo. |
||
;IAR 99 C "Șoim": Upgraded variant using an [[Elbit Systems]] avionics package. |
;IAR 99 C "Șoim": Upgraded variant using an [[Elbit Systems]] avionics package. |
||
;IAR 99 TD: Technical demonstrator under development. |
;IAR 99 TD: Technical demonstrator under development. |
||
; IAR 99 SM "Standard Modernizat": Modernized Standard variant designed as a lead-in trainer for the [[F-16]] and [[F-35]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-22|title=AVIOANE CRAIOVA A MODERNIZAT PRIMUL IAR 99 SM |url=https://tvr-craiova.ro/stiri/avioane-craiova-a-modernizat-primul-iar-99-sm/?fbclid=IwAR3fkvDfUj9Cjj9-YxE6ZANctuOJnGa6U86E0PXmZTn_r5i-W2EHb0zdCSs|website=[[TVR]]}}</ref> |
|||
==Operators== |
==Operators== |
||
;{{ROM}} |
;{{ROM}} |
||
* [[Romanian Air Force]] - |
* [[Romanian Air Force]] - 20 aircraft in service<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-12-04|title=World Air Forces 2021|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/reports/world-air-forces-2021/141456.article|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210110064115/https://www.flightglobal.com/reports/world-air-forces-2021/141456.article|archive-date=2021-01-10|access-date=2021-03-08|website=[[FlightGlobal]]}}</ref> |
||
== Notable accidents and incidents == |
== Notable accidents and incidents == |
||
* On 14 August 1986, aircraft number S-002 crashed. Lt. Col. Mihai Ionescu and Mj. Mitiță Stoica safely ejected.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> |
* On 14 August 1986, aircraft number S-002 crashed. Lt. Col. Mihai Ionescu and Mj. Mitiță Stoica safely ejected.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> |
||
*On 26 June 1990, aircraft number S-001: While training for an upcoming air show, during an inverted low level flight, the left wing clipped the air strip and crashed. [[Lieutenant colonel|Lt. Col.]] Ștefănel Vagner and Lt. Col. Mihai Ionescu died.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|last=Doroftei|first=Marius|date=2012-12-21|title=IAR-99 (Soim), apogeul aviației din România|url=https://www.aviatiamagazin.com/headline/iar-99-soim-apogeul-aviatiei-din-romania/|url-status=live|archive-url= |
*On 26 June 1990, aircraft number S-001: While training for an upcoming air show, during an inverted low level flight, the left wing clipped the air strip and crashed. [[Lieutenant colonel|Lt. Col.]] Ștefănel Vagner and Lt. Col. Mihai Ionescu died.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|last=Doroftei|first=Marius|date=2012-12-21|title=IAR-99 (Soim), apogeul aviației din România|url=https://www.aviatiamagazin.com/headline/iar-99-soim-apogeul-aviatiei-din-romania/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150717145437/https://www.aviatiamagazin.com/headline/iar-99-soim-apogeul-aviatiei-din-romania/|archive-date=2015-07-17|access-date=2021-03-08|website=AviatiaMagazin.com}}</ref> |
||
*On 24 February 1994, aircraft number 710 burned down on the ground. No injuries incurred.<ref name=":1" /> |
*On 24 February 1994, aircraft number 710 burned down on the ground. No injuries incurred.<ref name=":1" /> |
||
*On 30 March 1995, aircraft number 714: a fuel line rupture caused a fire. Both occupants ejected safely.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 55127|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/55127 |
*On 30 March 1995, aircraft number 714: a fuel line rupture caused a fire. Both occupants ejected safely.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 55127|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/55127|access-date=2021-03-08|website=[[Aviation Safety Network]]}}</ref> |
||
* On 24 September 2004, aircraft number 721 (Șoim), suffered a bird strike to the cockpit with debris ingested by the engine. The crew attempted a crash landing and were badly injured upon impact, but recovered. The aircraft was written off.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 55596|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/55596 |
* On 24 September 2004, aircraft number 721 (Șoim), suffered a bird strike to the cockpit with debris ingested by the engine. The crew attempted a crash landing and were badly injured upon impact, but recovered. The aircraft was written off.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 55596|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/55596|access-date=2021-03-08|website=[[Aviation Safety Network]]}}</ref> |
||
*On 23 August 2012, aircraft number 718 (Standard) crashed shortly after takeoff during a training flight. The instructor in the back seat ejected safely, suffering serious injuries. The student died.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 147880|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/147880 |
*On 23 August 2012, aircraft number 718 (Standard) crashed shortly after takeoff during a training flight. The instructor in the back seat ejected safely, suffering serious injuries. The student died.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 147880|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/147880|access-date=2021-03-08|website=[[Aviation Safety Network]]}}</ref> |
||
* On 16 July 2018, aircraft number 723 (Șoim), crashed after both occupants ejected safely. Onlookers report smoke coming from the aircraft before the crash.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 213352|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/213352 |
* On 16 July 2018, aircraft number 723 (Șoim), crashed after both occupants ejected safely. Onlookers report smoke coming from the aircraft before the crash.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 213352|url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/213352|access-date=2021-03-08|website=[[Aviation Safety Network]]}}</ref> |
||
==Specifications== |
==Specifications== |
||
Line 108: | Line 110: | ||
|max takeoff weight kg=4400 |
|max takeoff weight kg=4400 |
||
|max takeoff weight note=Trainer; {{convert|5560|kg|abbr=on}} Ground attack |
|max takeoff weight note=Trainer; {{convert|5560|kg|abbr=on}} Ground attack |
||
|fuel capacity=Internal:{{convert|1370| |
|fuel capacity=Internal:{{convert|1370|L|USgal impgal|abbr=on}}; External:up to {{convert|450|L|USgal impgal|abbr=on}} (in {{convert|225|L|USgal impgal|abbr=on}} drop tanks) |
||
|more general= |
|more general= |
||
<!-- |
<!-- |
||
Line 154: | Line 156: | ||
|fuel consumption kg/km= |
|fuel consumption kg/km= |
||
|fuel consumption lb/mi= |
|fuel consumption lb/mi= |
||
|thrust/weight= |
|thrust/weight= |
||
|more performance= |
|more performance= |
||
<!-- |
<!-- |
||
Line 179: | Line 181: | ||
==See also== |
==See also== |
||
{{Portal|Romania|Aviation}} |
|||
{{aircontent |
{{aircontent |
||
|related= |
|related= |
||
Line 213: | Line 216: | ||
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]] |
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]] |
||
[[Category:IAR aircraft|99]] |
[[Category:IAR aircraft|99]] |
||
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]] |
Latest revision as of 23:15, 21 November 2024
IAR 99 | |
---|---|
General information | |
Type | Advanced trainer and light attack aircraft |
National origin | Romania |
Manufacturer | Avioane Craiova |
Status | In service |
Primary user | Romanian Air Force |
Number built | 28 (25 Șoim/C 3 prototip) |
History | |
Manufactured | 1985–2008 |
Introduction date | 1987 |
First flight | 21 December 1985 |
The IAR 99[1] Șoim (Hawk) is an advanced trainer and light attack aircraft capable of performing close air support and reconnaissance missions. The IAR 99 replaced the Aero L-29 Delfin and Aero L-39 Albatros as the jet trainer of the Romanian Air Force. The aircraft is of semi-monocoque design, with tapered wings and a swept-back tail unit. A large blade-type antenna installed beneath the nose on the port side of the fuselage gives the IAR 99 trainer a distinctive appearance.
Development
[edit]The design of the aircraft started in 1975 and this would be the first jet trainer fully designed and built in Romania. In 1979 funding was approved for building the first trainer by I.Av. Craiova where the IAR 93 attack aircraft was currently built. The prototype (S-001) flew on 21 December 1985 with Lt. Col. Vagner Ștefănel at the controls.[2] S-002 served for static (ground) testing, S-003 being the second flying prototype (later re-serialled 7003).
The aircraft entered series production in 1987, with 17 aircraft delivered to the Romanian Air Force by 1989. Two were lost in the 1990s (numbers 710 and 714).
In 1990 the fall of the Eastern Bloc created new export opportunities for the aircraft, but while the aircraft had excellent aerodynamic and handling qualities, it was left behind in its class because of its obsolete avionics, with upgrading becoming a priority.
The first upgrade attempt was made in 1990 by I.Av.Craiova together with the Texas-based Jaffe Aircraft Corporation. Aircraft 708 and 709[3] were modified by installing Honeywell avionics, while the canopy was changed to a two-piece design instead of the original one piece. This change would be retained for all subsequent aircraft. 708 took its first flight on August 8, 1990, followed by 709 on August 22. The aircraft were displayed at the 1990 Farnborough Airshow, being proposed for the Joint Primary Aircraft Training System program for the United States of America, although this work resulted in no orders. In 1991, aircraft number 712 was outfitted with Collins avionics and took part in a show in Ankara, Turkey.
Aircraft 708, 709 and 712 were reconfigured to Standard and delivered to the Romanian Air Force.
In 1996 the upgrade program of the IAR 99 was revived with the need for a lead-in trainer for the newly upgraded MiG-21 Lancer. The Israeli company Elbit was chosen as an integrator. The avionics package is compatible with 5th generation fighter systems and it is inspired by the MiG-21 Lancer upgrade but adapted to IAR 99 needs. The first upgraded IAR 99 was the 18th production aircraft (number 718), which performed its first flight on 22 May 1997.[4] The upgraded IAR 99 was displayed at Paris in 1997 and Farnborough in 1998.
On 6 August 1998, the Romanian Government approved the introduction into series production of the upgrade program for 24 IAR-99 Șoim out of which 4 were supposed to be delivered by 2001. The Romanian Ministry of National Defence signs a contract for those 24 aircraft on 20 April 2000, reducing that number to 12 on 14 December 2000.[5] Only seven of these are to be new-built (numbers 719–725), and five upgraded from existing IAR 99 (numbers 709, 711, 712, 713, 717). These were delivered between 2003 and 2008,[6] gradually replacing the L-39 Albatros' in service with the Romanian Air Force's training school.
Thus, the Romanian Air Force will have 12 IAR 99 C Șoim (upgraded) and 11 IAR 99 Standard, with 7003 remaining with Avioane Craiova SA as demonstrator aircraft.
In 2015, a consortium composed of Avioane Craiova, INCAS and CCIZ announced[7] that an enhanced version of the IAR 99 called IAR 99 TD is under development. A single airframe will be built with a new avionics suite, an engine and radar. The Leonardo Vixen 500E[8] radar was chosen and requires lengthening the nose by 900mm. A new engine which supports computer control is required to replace the 1951 designed Rolls-Royce Viper. This in turn will need a twice as big air intake.[9] A prototype is expected to be completed by 2022.[10]
In December 2020, Elbit Systems announced they were awarded the contract to upgrade the remaining 10 IAR 99 Standard airframes in service with the Romanian Air Force.[11] The upgrade, done by Avioane Craiova, was to be finished by 2024. However, due to several delays, the first aircraft was modernized in December 2023.[12]
Design
[edit]Cockpit
[edit]The aircraft has a tandem-stepped dual-control cockpit equipped with Martin-Baker Mk 10 zero-zero ejection seats. The instructor's seat at the rear position is raised by 35 cm to provide better visibility. The canopy was made as a single piece (prototypes and planes 701–707), later changed to a two-piece canopy, both opening to the starboard side.
The cockpit is equipped with HOTAS control and also LCDs (Liquid Crystal Display). Both the pilot and the instructor are equipped with a DASH Display and Sight Helmet which is currently deployed on the MiG 21 Lancer. The helmet guides the onboard weapons systems to the pilot's line of sight. The visor's display confirms when target acquisition has been achieved. The visor also displays the data from the HUD (Head-Up Display). Flight and navigation data are displayed on HUD, on the helmet DASH and MFDC (color multifunction displays).
Avionics
[edit]Elbit is supplying the aircraft's advanced avionics suite installed on a MIL-STD-1553B data bus. The advanced avionics suite, including communications, navigation, identification systems and the cockpit configuration, are similar to those of the MiG 21 LanceR and F-16 fighter aircraft. The IAR 99 is also equipped with video and debriefing systems.
The communication systems include VHF and UHF communications, voice-activated intercom and an IFF transponder. The flight systems include a VOR/ILS, linked VHF omnidirectional antenna radio ranger linked to the instrument landing system. Other navigation tools include distance measuring equipment (DME), an automatic direction finder (ADF), a Northrop Grumman inertial navigation system and a Trimble GPS system.
One of the best features of the aircraft's avionics is a virtual training system that allows, based on a data link system, inflight simulations of firing and air combat capabilities using two or more aircraft.
Countermeasures
[edit]The IAR 99's electronic warfare suite is based on the Elisra Electronic Systems radar warning receiver and electronic countermeasures pod plus a chaff and flare decoy dispenser. The systems are integrated through the 1553 data bus. The radar warning receiver detects pulse-Doppler, pulse and continuous wave radar threats and provides threat identification by comparing signal characteristics against a threat database.
Variants
[edit]- IAR 99 "Standard"
- Initial variant designed as a lead-in trainer for the IAR-93.
- IAR 109 "Swift"
- In 1992 an upgrade program was started in partnership with IAI Lahav[13] of Israel, for both Romanian Air Force use and export.[14] Aircraft number 7003 was equipped with HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick) controls in both cockpits, a wide-angle HUD (Head-Up Display) with Up Front Control Panel in the front cockpit, two 3 inch displays in both cockpits, a ring laser gyro Inertial Navigation System (INS), as well as the integration of both Eastern and Western weapon systems on the aircraft. The aircraft was displayed at the 1993 Paris Air Show[15] and flew at Asian Aerospace in 1994. A prospective sale of 10 aircraft to Botswana[16] was blocked in parliament, ending the collaboration with IAI. The aircraft was converted back to Standard configuration and delivered to the center for flight research and testing (CCIZ). As late as 2009[17] it still retained its "Swift" styled paint scheme and logo.
- IAR 99 C "Șoim"
- Upgraded variant using an Elbit Systems avionics package.
- IAR 99 TD
- Technical demonstrator under development.
- IAR 99 SM "Standard Modernizat"
- Modernized Standard variant designed as a lead-in trainer for the F-16 and F-35.[18]
Operators
[edit]- Romanian Air Force - 20 aircraft in service[19]
Notable accidents and incidents
[edit]- On 14 August 1986, aircraft number S-002 crashed. Lt. Col. Mihai Ionescu and Mj. Mitiță Stoica safely ejected.[20][5]
- On 26 June 1990, aircraft number S-001: While training for an upcoming air show, during an inverted low level flight, the left wing clipped the air strip and crashed. Lt. Col. Ștefănel Vagner and Lt. Col. Mihai Ionescu died.[20]
- On 24 February 1994, aircraft number 710 burned down on the ground. No injuries incurred.[5]
- On 30 March 1995, aircraft number 714: a fuel line rupture caused a fire. Both occupants ejected safely.[21]
- On 24 September 2004, aircraft number 721 (Șoim), suffered a bird strike to the cockpit with debris ingested by the engine. The crew attempted a crash landing and were badly injured upon impact, but recovered. The aircraft was written off.[22]
- On 23 August 2012, aircraft number 718 (Standard) crashed shortly after takeoff during a training flight. The instructor in the back seat ejected safely, suffering serious injuries. The student died.[23]
- On 16 July 2018, aircraft number 723 (Șoim), crashed after both occupants ejected safely. Onlookers report smoke coming from the aircraft before the crash.[24]
Specifications
[edit]Data from Avioane Craiova SA,[4] Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2004-05[25]
General characteristics
- Crew: 2
- Length: 11.01 m (36 ft 1 in)
- Wingspan: 9.85 m (32 ft 4 in)
- Height: 3.9 m (12 ft 10 in)
- Wing area: 18.71 m2 (201.4 sq ft)
- Aspect ratio: 5.2
- Airfoil: NACA 641A-214 (modified)
- Empty weight: 3,200 kg (7,055 lb) equipped
- Max takeoff weight: 4,400 kg (9,700 lb) Trainer; 5,560 kg (12,260 lb) Ground attack
- Fuel capacity: Internal:1,370 L (360 US gal; 300 imp gal); External:up to 450 L (120 US gal; 99 imp gal) (in 225 L (59 US gal; 49 imp gal) drop tanks)
- Powerplant: 1 × Turbomecanica/Rolls-Royce Viper Mk632-41M turbojet, 17.79 kN (4,000 lbf) thrust
Performance
- Maximum speed: 865 km/h (537 mph, 467 kn) trainer, clean
- Maximum speed: Mach 0.76
- Range: 1,100 km (680 mi, 590 nmi) Trainer with internal fuel; Ground attack with internal fuel 967 km (601 mi; 522 nmi)
- Combat range: 345 km (214 mi, 186 nmi) hi-lo-hi at 5,280 kg (11,640 lb)all-up weight
- Service ceiling: 12,900 m (42,300 ft)
- g limits: +7 / -3.6
- Rate of climb: 35 m/s (6,900 ft/min) at Sea level
- Wing loading: 235.2 kg/m2 (48.2 lb/sq ft) Trainer; 297.2 kg/m2 (60.9 lb/sq ft) Ground attack
Armament
- Guns: 1 × 23 mm Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-23L autocannon
- Hardpoints: 4 underwing hardpoints capable of holding 250 kg each and 1 central hardpoint capable of holding 400 kg with a capacity of up to 450 kg (990 lb) of stores (the underwing hardpoints are wet capable of carrying 225l drop tanks)
- Rockets:
- Missiles:
- R-60 air-to-air missile
- Python AAM
- R.550 Magic AAM
- Bombs:
- BEM 250
- BE 100
- BE 50
- Mk 82 general-purpose bomb
- Opher infrared-guided bomb
- Laser-guided bombs
See also
[edit]Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era
- Aermacchi MB-339 - same engine and role
- Aero L-59 Super Albatros
- BAE Systems Hawk
- FMA IA 63 Pampa
- Mikoyan MiG-AT
- PZL I-22 Iryda
- Soko G-4 Super Galeb
- Kawasaki T-4
- CASA C-101
References
[edit]- ^ "Avioane IAR 99 Soim (Hawk)". www.militaryfactory.com. Retrieved 2023-05-04.
- ^ Air International September 1990, pp. 129–133.
- ^ Vlad, Ing. Dănuț (2015-12-21). "IAR-99 – 30 de ani de la primul zbor". Resboiu. Archived from the original on 2020-10-24. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ a b "IAR 99 SOIM History". Archived from the original on 2011-07-24. Retrieved 2009-09-28.
- ^ a b c Leoveanu, Grigore (2014-12-10). "Programul IAR 99 - Scurt Istoric". IAR99SOIM. Archived from the original on 2020-11-27. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ Ștefănescu, Ioan (2012-06-01). "S.C. Advanced Training Aircraft IAR 99 (A) SOIM". ResearchGate. Archived from the original on 2021-03-08. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ "Avionul românesc IAR 99 TD ar putea zbura la începutul anului 2018". Digi24. 2015-12-04. Archived from the original on 2021-03-08. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ "Leonardo Vixen 500E AESA radar chosen for IAR-99 tech demonstrator". Leonardo S.p.A. 2017-08-29. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ Român, Cristian (2016-06-30). "Demonstratorul tehnologic IAR 99-TD realizat de INCAS". Știință & Tehnică. Archived from the original on 2020-12-05. Retrieved 2020-03-08.
- ^ "Proiectul IAR-99 TD prezentat la Inventika". Romania Military. October 19, 2014. Retrieved March 23, 2015.
- ^ "Elbit Systems Awarded $27 Million Contract to Upgrade Romanian Air Force's IAR-99 Aircraft". Elbit Systems. 2020-12-14. Retrieved 2020-03-08.
- ^ "După o lungă întârziere au început la Craiova probele cu primul avion IAR 99 SM care a fost modernizat". G4Media (in Romanian). 22 December 2023.
- ^ "Románia Solymai - IAR-99/99C Soim". Military technology. 2019-11-15. Archived from the original on 2020-09-25. Retrieved 2021-03-14.
- ^ "IAR-109 Swift". All the world’s aircraft. Jane’s.
- ^ "IAR 109 Swift 7003 Paris Air Show 1993". Flickr. 1993-06-12.
- ^ Leoveanu, Grigore. "Cu IAR-ul în… Singapore!!". Romania Military. Archived from the original on 2021-02-13. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ "IAR-109 Swift". Airliners.net. 2009-08-26.
- ^ "AVIOANE CRAIOVA A MODERNIZAT PRIMUL IAR 99 SM". TVR. 2023-12-22.
- ^ "World Air Forces 2021". FlightGlobal. 2020-12-04. Archived from the original on 2021-01-10. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ a b Doroftei, Marius (2012-12-21). "IAR-99 (Soim), apogeul aviației din România". AviatiaMagazin.com. Archived from the original on 2015-07-17. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ "ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 55127". Aviation Safety Network. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ "ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 55596". Aviation Safety Network. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ "ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 147880". Aviation Safety Network. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ "ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 213352". Aviation Safety Network. Retrieved 2021-03-08.
- ^ Jackson, Paul, ed. (2005). Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2004-05. London: Jane's Publishing Group. pp. 373–375. ISBN 0-7106-2614-2.
Sources
[edit]- "Romanian Falcon". Air International, September 1990, Vol 39 No. 3. pp. 129–133.