OVERVIEW: The IAI 201 Arava is a twin-engine, short takeoff and landing (STOL) utility aircraft developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, modified for ELINT and COMINT roles. an electronic surveillance configuration for regional signal monitoring and intelligence missions.

DETAILS: The IAI 201 Arava was developed in the late 1960s by Israel Aircraft Industries as a versatile light transport and special mission aircraft. Its high-wing, twin-turboprop design allows for excellent low-speed handling and operations from short or unprepared airstrips. Thailand acquired the Arava in multiple variants, including modified ELINT/COMINT configurations used for electronic surveillance missions. Powered by two Honeywell TPE331 turboprop engines, the aircraft has a cruising speed of approximately 370 km/h and a range of around 1,000–1,300 km depending on mission load. The ELINT/COMINT versions were outfitted with side-mounted antenna arrays and internal electronic mission systems for intercepting communications and radar emissions.

TYPE: Tactical Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Aircraft

FUNCTION: Used for interception and monitoring of communication and radar emissions in support of national security, border surveillance, and electronic mapping. Its short-field performance and compact profile made it suitable for operations from austere airfields near sensitive regions.

NOTE:
IOC: 1972 (base model)
Manufacturer: Israel Aerospace Industries (Israel)
Operators: Israel

SOURCE:
IAI Official Website: https://www.iai.co.il ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft: https://www.janes.com ; FlightGlobal World Air Forces Directory ; Royal Thai Air Force Historical Overview ; Federation of American Scientists (FAS): https://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/row/arava.htm