The decision, estimated at tens of billions of shekels, approved by the ministerial committee for equipment, involves the purchase of a fourth squadron of F-35 “Adir” aircraft produced by Lockheed Martin, as well as a second squadron of F-15IA manufactured by Boeing. The program also includes their integration into the air force, as well as the necessary support, spare parts, and logistics.
This acquisition marks the first step in a strategic plan to enhance military capabilities for the next decade, with a total budget of 350 billion shekels approved by the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister.
Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that this decision reflects the lessons learned from the confrontation with Iran, underscoring the need to accelerate the development of military capabilities. According to him, this program aims to ensure the Israeli Defense Forces a lasting qualitative advantage against regional threats.
Israeli authorities believe that these new squadrons are a central element of the military apparatus for decades to come, maintaining Israel’s strategic air superiority in the region.
The Defense Ministry also noted ongoing negotiations to finalize agreements with American authorities responsible for the production of the aircraft within a short timeframe.
Defense Ministry Director-General Amir Baram stressed the importance of this decision in a region characterized by evolving threats, emphasizing that this reinforcement aims to ensure the preparedness of the Israeli army for future challenges.
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