In 1968 the Israeli Defense Force, Air Force ordered (35) Sikorsky
S-65C-3 helicopters from new production. They are named
Yasur (Petrel) in IDF service. Some have been lost over the years in military action (?) and accidents (5). In 1981, Israel purchased (2)
S-65C-2s from Austria, the type having proven too expensive to operate. It is reported that the US provided (10?) ex-USMC
CH-53As after the Gulf War in 1991. Staring in 2000, Israel Aircraft Industries has put the surviving Yasurs through a comprehensive upgrade program, featuring SLEP reinforcements, new rotors, partial glass cockpits, and new avionics. Begining in 2005, 4 have been sold to Mexico. The remaining aircraft are flown by No. 114 Sqn and No. 118 Sqn.
As of 2015, 23 remain in service including upgrades to Yas'ur 2025 standard
