Argentina acquired Nesher fighters from Israel after the aircraft were retired from Israeli service in the late 1970s. The Nesher is a variant of the Mirage 5, and it was used by the Israeli Air Force during the Yom Kippur War. After Israel phased out the Nesher, Argentina sought to bolster its air force capabilities, particularly in the context of the Falklands War in 1982.

Acquisition of Nesher Fighters

1. Negotiations and Purchase: Argentina negotiated the purchase of 30 Nesher fighters from Israel in the late 1970s. The deal was part of a broader military cooperation agreement between the two countries, which included training and technical support.

2. Delivery: The aircraft were delivered to Argentina in 1979 and 1980. The acquisition was significant for Argentina, as it provided them with a modern fighter aircraft that could enhance their air combat capabilities.

Use of Nesher Fighters

1. Operational Role: The Nesher fighters were primarily used for air superiority and ground attack missions. They were equipped with a range of weapons, including air-to-air missiles and bombs, making them versatile for various combat scenarios.

2. Falklands War: During the Falklands War in 1982, the Neshers played a crucial role in Argentina's air operations against British forces. They were involved in air-to-air combat and ground attack missions, although they faced challenges against British Harrier jets and other aircraft.

3. Legacy: The Nesher fighters remained in service with the Argentine Air Force until the late 1990s. They were eventually retired as Argentina transitioned to newer aircraft, but the Nesher's impact on the Argentine military aviation landscape was significant during its operational years.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Nesher fighters allowed Argentina to enhance its air force capabilities significantly during a critical period in its military history. The aircraft served effectively in various roles until their retirement, marking an important chapter in the evolution of Argentina's military aviation.