99-Year-Old Kfir Jet Project Leader Shares Secrets to Longevity and Israeli Defense

Approaching his 99th birthday, Ben-Ami Gov, a pivotal figure in the development of Israel's first indigenous fighter jet, the Kfir, reflects on a life filled with significant contributions to the nation's security and a remarkable personal vitality. Gov, who will celebrate his birthday in December, attributes his youthful spirit, which he likens to that of a 50-year-old, to a proactive mindset and a continuous engagement with challenges, a trait honed during his early days as a Palmach fighter and later as the engineer who spearheaded the Kfir project amidst a French arms embargo.

Gov's early life was deeply intertwined with the foundational struggles of Israel. He served as a driver in the convoys to besieged Jerusalem during the 1948 War of Independence, an experience that profoundly shaped him, including witnessing the death of a child hit by a shell. He also joined the Palmach without official registration, driven by a desire to contribute directly to the war effort. His journey then shifted to engineering, culminating in his leadership of the Kfir project, a testament to Israeli ingenuity in overcoming significant international obstacles.

In an interview coinciding with receiving an honorary doctorate from the Technion, Gov discussed his views on Israel's current reliance on American military aid. He emphasized the importance of developing an independent defense industry, drawing parallels to the challenges faced during the French embargo. Gov believes that while Israel's industrial capacity has grown immensely, complete self-sufficiency is complex and costly, advocating for international cooperation in future defense projects.

Gov's career highlights his ability to innovate and solve complex problems. He recounts developing a novel radar system and devising ingenious solutions to circumvent the French embargo, including assembling Kfir jets from parts imported discreetly. His work on the Kfir, which he considers the pinnacle of his career, involved adapting existing French Mirage aircraft to incorporate advanced Israeli-developed systems, a feat that required immense creativity and determination.

Despite his advanced age, Gov remains mentally sharp, actively using technology like WhatsApp and engaging with complex subjects. His remarkable health and vigor have often surprised medical professionals. He attributes his longevity not to a specific scientific formula but to his "intuition" and a refusal to adopt a sedentary lifestyle, preferring the company of younger people and a constant drive to explore and innovate.