201 Squadron (Israel)
201 Squadron, also known as "The One" Squadron, is a fighter squadron of the Israeli Air Force (IAF). It operates the F-35I Adir stealth fighter aircraft from Nevatim Airbase.
The squadron has a long history, originally forming during the pre-state era as a transport unit. It transitioned to fighter aircraft following the establishment of Israel and has flown a variety of platforms, including the P-51 Mustang, Dassault Ouragan, Dassault Mystère IV, IAI Nesher, IAI Kfir, and the F-4 Phantom II.
Throughout its history, 201 Squadron has participated in numerous conflicts and operations, including the Suez Crisis, the Six-Day War, the Yom Kippur War, and the First Lebanon War. The squadron has earned a reputation for excellence in air-to-air combat and ground attack missions.
The transition to the F-35I Adir represents a significant upgrade in capabilities for the squadron and the IAF, enabling it to maintain air superiority and project power in the region. The squadron's primary roles include air defense, deep strike missions, and intelligence gathering.