Israel is investigating a health scare among pilots of its most advanced warplanes.
Military officials said Sunday that they grounded many of the Air Force’s F-16I warplanes following pilots’ complaints that they felt a burning sensation in their sinuses during flights.
Initial indications are that formaldehyde, a potentially carcinogenic drug, is in the breathing apparatus of the jets.
Lockheed Martin, the American firm that produces the F-16, has joined Israeli officials in investigating the scare.
The F-16I is Israel’s most advanced warplane, with long-range attack capabilities that would make it a key player in any future war with Syria or Iran. Israel has more than 80 of the aircraft.
