The Israeli Air Force revealed its newest squadron today. The “Number One” Squadron, which will be equipped with the latest model of the F-16 fighter-bomber, including Israeli-made modifications: the F-16I “Storm”.

The squadron will be based in the south of the country, and resurrects a proud name from IAF history; the original “Number One” squadron operated from 1969 until the early 2000s, flying F-4 Phantom strike bombers. The squadron’s missions included many daring deep-penetration raids against Egypt during the War of Attrition, and it was awarded the Chief of Staff’s Unit Citation in 1973.

Lt. Col. “Shaul”, the squadron commander, noted that the squadron was ready to confront Israel’s enemies. “We have prepared ourselves for every scenario and all the threats that face Israel, from the closest to the furthest…We are ready. This is why Israel has invested so much time, effort, and money in us.”

According to sources, any future strike on Iran would likely include the squadron, and foreign reports indicate that F-16I aircraft participated in a recent long-range IAF exercise over the Mediterranean.