The Israeli Air Force (IAF) is planning to make improvements to its Combat Helicopter Division in an effort to cope with the changing battlefield.

Work under proposed project includes the integration of new armament in the 'Hornet' Squadron, which operates AH-64D Apache Longbow (Saraf) helicopters.

IAF Material Directorate major Dror said: "The combat helicopter division is equipping itself with new arms in order to maintain its relevance in the changing battlefield.

"It will integrate accurate and long range munitions that will provide it with versatility in attacking different targets."

"It will integrate accurate and long range munitions that will provide it with versatility in attacking different targets."

The new arms such as rockets will also be integrated into the 'Magic Touch' Squadron, which operates AH-64 Apache (Peten) helicopters.

Ramon air force base (AFB) Munitions Department commander major Michael said: "The rockets are based on rocket engines combined with a laser based guiding system which makes them like guided missiles.

“This weapon can be installed on the helicopters in large amounts while every helicopter can carry about 70 rockets.”

Following the integration of new arms and advanced observation system, the helicopter crew will be able to destroy targets from a relatively far distance, while staying out of the enemy's range of fire.

As part of the improvements, the currently used fuel tanks will be replaced by the tanks from the Skyhawk (Ayit) fighter jet, the IAF said in a statement.

The jet's tanks are large and will allow the helicopter to travel longer distances than before.