 Beginning with a small collection of light aircraft, the force soon transformed into a comprehensive fighting force.It has since participated in several wars and numerous engagements, becoming what has been described as "The mightiest air force in the Middle East".Preceded by the Sherut Avir, the air wing of the Haganah, the Israeli Air Force was officially formed on May 28, 1948, shortly after Israel declared statehood and found itself under immediate attack from its Arab neighbors.