601 Squadron/MANAT

The Hatzor based evaluation unit is dedicated to flight testing and evaluating aircraft and weapons systems for the IDF/AF. This includes equipment proposed for IDF/AF procurement and also captured enemy types. The highly experienced pilots are often called upon to fly unusual aircraft and helicopters with minimal briefing and technical backup.

Captured aircraft are usually passed on to the IDF/AF museum at Hatzerim after evaluation, although certain key types have found their way to the USA for further testing. The unit has no dedicated aircraft as such, normally borrowing aircraft as and when needed. The unit is normally referred to as MANAT (Mer-kaz Nisu-yei Ti-sa = Center for Flight Testing).