Yet another Tech Log thread that has suddenly been revived from the past. Someone must have been trawling!
The point I think I was trying to make, billovitch, was that there is a difference in intensity between a full-blown 30-200ka "bolt" that is self-initiating, and a static discharge that is simply triggered by the presence of one's aircraft. The former has been known to blow radomes or panels off planes, while the latter leaves small scorches or pin-holes.
I am not sure if any scientists have ever actually defined the boundary between the two, and would be the first to admit that it is probably the last thing on one's mind when there is a blinding flash and a deafening bang! However, I seem to remember that, in general, where there is otherwise no electric storm in progress it would normally be considered a static discharge.
Meanwhile, if you can obtain it, Schonland's book is a fascinating read.