The Israeli Air Force’s fleet of fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters will increase by one and a half times. The country has officially applied to purchase the aircraft.
Here’s what we know
The Israeli version of the aircraft is called the F-35I Adir. The Israeli Ministry of Defense sent an official letter requesting the purchase of fighter aircraft to accelerate the formation of the third squadron. The ministry did not announce when deliveries would begin.
The deal is valued at $3 billion. The purchase of 25 fifth-generation F-35I fighters is financed by US military aid. According to the Jerusalem Post, Israel will receive the jets starting in 2026-2027.
The country needs F-35Is to effectively attack Iranian formations in Syria. The Israeli Air Force currently has 50 aircraft in service in two squadrons. The Adir version is characterized by the use of Israeli-made components and the ability to carry Spice-100, Python-5, Stunner missiles and MPR-500 bombs.
Source: The Jerusalem Post