From foe to ally: Jordanian Air Force downs Iranian drones en route to Israel

• Published date: 14 April 2024
• Author: UDI EZION
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

This incident underscored the transformation of the Jordanian Air Force from a former adversary to a critical ally of Israel

Historically, in September 1948, an Israeli pilot flying a Czech version of the Nazi Messerschmitt 109 downed a Jordanian De Havilland Dragon Rapide transport plane. The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in the Galilee, killing most on board. Over the years, Israeli pilots have consistently bested Jordanian aircraft, with significant engagements during the Six-Day War and subsequent skirmishes. The Israeli Air Force also obliterated dozens of Jordanian combat planes on the ground during the Six-Day War.

Despite repeated defeats, Israeli pilots respected the Jordanians for their superior flying skills compared to their Egyptian and Syrian counterparts, backed by the British who founded and equipped Jordan's air force. During the Six-Day War, Jordanian Hunter jets launched attacks on Netanya and Nahalal and even managed to destroy an Israeli Nord transport plane parked at Sde Dov Airport.

Since assisting King Hussein in quashing a Palestinian revolt in 1970, the two air forces have not engaged in combat. Even on the eve of the Gulf War in 1991, when asked about potential opposition from the Jordanian Air Force should Israel strike Iraq, the then-retired Air Force commander Avihu Ben-Nun starkly stated, "There would be no more Jordanian Air Force."

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