The IAF ordered six SA.321Ka (with stabilizing floats & winch) and six SA.321Kb (no floats or winch) from Aerospatiale in 1965. Nine were received in April 1966, and another 4 were received after the Six-Day War. Only 13 of a desired total of 24 were received prior to the French arms embargo following the Six Day War.
Aerospatiale SA.321Kb
Super-Frelon
Tzir'a (Wasp)
The IAF used this long range helicopter to transport of troops and heavy equipment and for rescue operations. During the War of Attrition (1969-1970), they carried elite units on daring missions such as Shaduan Island, Naga Hamdi, and Kina Dam. In 1973-74 the U.S. supplied T58-GE-16 engines that replaced the original powerplants.