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SAI Shahak A*

The SAI Shahak (שחק/Sky) was a tactical bomber developed at the end of the 1940s, that entered service in 1950. After two prototypes crashed due to buffeting and stability issues, a redesigned aerofoil was used that solved the problems. Power comes from two engines in the wings, and top speed is 923 km/h /580 mph, and range is 1900 km/1180 mi. Crew consists of three, two of which are housed in a spacious bubble canopy, allowing for great all-round visibility and comfort. The bomb aimer lies in the front. The pilots like flying their Shahaks, due to their reasonable agility and comfort. However, the engines are a bit underwhelming, and top speed is only reached on the long stretch or during a steep dive.

A payload of 4,700 kg/ 10,362 lbs can be carried, but never in combat.

A typical full bomb load consists of eighteen 227 kg/500 lb GP bombs, 12 in the bomb bay, and six on wing-mounted pylons. This can be switched for three 1,050 kg/2,315 lb laser-guided bombs, a jamming pod and a targeting pod, or a rotary launcher, limiting the bombs carried internally to 8. Other combinations can also be carried. Two 231 kg/ 508 lb torpedoes can be carried by the B-model.

After nine prototypes, the A-model was accepted into service. This is the basic bomber model, virtually identical to the last prototypes. The A* is an updated model, with provisions for a jamming pod and a Gomorra missile for self-defence. The engines produce more thrust, but the added weight means the performance is identical to the previous model.

The Shahak B is the version for coastal defence, and is basically an A* with equipment that allows for navigation over the ocean and provisions for two torpedoes and specialized equipment for anti-ship and -submarine warfare.

The Shahak D is a ground-attacker/ medium- to low-altitude bomber. The bombardier was replaced with an armour plate, and the pilot was given a fancy sight to aim the four 20mm cannons in the wings, each holding 230 rounds.

 

Quick summary:

Tactical Bomber

5,000 kg Bomb load: +0

Mediocre agility: +1

Subsonic: +0

2000km Range: -2

Comfy: +1

Good visibility: +1

Underpowered: -1

Cost: 30₪

For D&C VI

Loosely based on the English Electric Canberra

 

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Uploaded on July 13, 2016