Israel deploys RAMPAGE stand-off missiles on F-16I jets in large-scale Iran strikes

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have released images showing an Israeli Air Force F-16I Sufa armed with RAMPAGE stand-off missiles ahead of strikes on Iran as part of Operation Lion’s Roar.

The photographs, published on the IDF’s Farsi-language social media account on February 28, show the twin-seat F-16I configured for long-range operations.

The aircraft is equipped with conformal fuel tanks, three external 600-gallon fuel tanks and a mixed weapons load that includes RAMPAGE air-launched missiles and beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles for self-defense.

According to the IDF, around 200 Israeli fighter jets took part in coordinated strikes that hit approximately 500 targets across Iran. Military officials described the operation as the largest air overflight in Israel’s history. Targets included air defense systems, missile launchers and military infrastructure at multiple locations. The campaign was conducted jointly with the United States.

The RAMPAGE missile is designed for stand-off attacks against high-value fixed targets. Derived from a guided artillery rocket family, the air-launched weapon is intended to strike from distances that allow aircraft to remain outside the engagement range of many surface-to-air missile systems. The missile uses satellite and inertial guidance and carries a multi-purpose warhead suited for infrastructure targets such as radar installations, command facilities, ammunition depots and airfield infrastructure.

By carrying RAMPAGE missiles along with extended fuel tanks, the F-16I can conduct deep strike missions while retaining the ability to defend itself against potential aerial threats. The Sufa variant is tailored to Israel’s long-range strike requirements and features conformal fuel tanks and Israeli-developed avionics and electronic warfare systems.

The IDF said one of the strikes targeted a site in Tabriz used by an Iranian surface-to-surface missile unit that was allegedly preparing launches against Israeli civilians. Israeli officials stated that operations would continue in order to further degrade Iran’s military capabilities.

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