CH-53 Yasur helicopter, file
CH-53 Yasur helicopter, fileOfer Zidon/Flash90

An advanced missile defense system was installed on Israeli Air Force (IAF) CH-53 Yasur transport helicopters, the military confirmed last week, as part of its target to upgrade the helicopters by 2025. 

The Dragon Block 3 defense system provides 360° coverage against missile attacks and provide faster countermeasure service. 

CH-53 helicopters, in service since 2006, have been involved in heroic missions in Gaza and Lebanon.

Their use in the IAF came under scrutiny in 2012, when two separate helicopters were forced to make emergency landings within a one-month span.