JERUSALEM, — May 3, 2026 : Israel has formally approved the acquisition of two additional squadrons of advanced combat aircraft, authorizing the purchase of new F-35I Adir stealth fighters and F-15IA aircraft as part of a long-term military modernization program.
The decision was cleared by the Ministerial Committee on Procurement, enabling the Defense Ministry to move forward with negotiations for a fourth squadron of F-35I aircraft from Lockheed Martin and a second squadron of F-15IA jets from Boeing.
Strategic Framework and Budget Allocation
The procurement represents the first operational phase of a broader 350 billion shekel ($119 billion) defense buildup program approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz. The multi-year plan is structured to strengthen Israel’s long-term military readiness and preserve its qualitative air superiority in the Middle East over the next decade.
Under the approved package, Israel will acquire:
- 25 additional F-35I stealth fighter jets
- 25 F-15IA advanced fighter aircraft
- Full operational integration into Israeli Air Force command, control, and networking systems
- Long-term sustainment support, including spare parts, maintenance frameworks, and regional logistics infrastructure
The procurement will be financed through United States security assistance funds, continuing the established defense cooperation mechanism between Washington and Jerusalem.
Expansion of Israeli Air Force Capabilities
The acquisitions will significantly expand the operational strength of the Israeli Air Force over the coming decade.
Israel currently operates 48 F-35I aircraft out of an initial order of 50, primarily based at Nevatim Airbase. A third squadron of 25 F-35I jets was approved in 2023, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028. The addition of the newly approved fourth squadron will bring the total planned fleet to 100 F-35I aircraft.
For the F-15IA platform, Israel signed a contract with Boeing in 2024 for an initial 25 aircraft, with deliveries projected to begin in 2031. The approval of a second squadron will double the total number of F-15IA jets to 50.
The dual-platform structure is designed to combine the operational characteristics of both aircraft types. The F-35I provides low observable capabilities, advanced sensor fusion, and network-centric warfare integration, while the F-15IA offers extended range and heavy payload capacity for long-range strike missions.
Operational Context and Policy Direction
Defense officials indicated that the procurement timeline and structure were influenced by recent regional security developments, including operational assessments from the conflict with Iran referred to by the Israel Defense Forces as Operation Roaring Lion.
Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that future requirements will include expanded technological capabilities, particularly in autonomous aviation systems and space-based defense integration. He emphasized the need for continuous force development to ensure operational flexibility across multiple theaters.
Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram said the procurement balances immediate operational requirements with long-term planning. He also highlighted the role of U.S.-Israel defense coordination, noting that recent combat experience reinforced the importance of bilateral strategic cooperation.
Procurement Process and Implementation
Following the committee’s authorization, the Defense Ministry’s procurement delegation in the United States has been directed to finalize contractual agreements with U.S. government and defense counterparts. This includes completing administrative procedures, funding allocations, and delivery frameworks.
While detailed delivery schedules for the newly approved squadrons have not been publicly disclosed, officials confirmed that the broader military buildup program is structured over an approximately ten-year timeline.
The F-35I “Adir” is a customized configuration of the F-35 platform adapted for Israeli operational requirements, while the F-15IA is based on the latest F-15EX design with modifications tailored for long-range and high-payload missions.
The approval aligns with Israel’s ongoing modernization of its air combat capabilities and reflects continued reliance on U.S. defense partnerships for advanced military technology procurement.
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