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Israel's defence ministry has approved the purchase of two new combat squadrons of advanced F-35 and F-15IA fighter jets from Lockheed Martin and Boeing. The multi-billion dollar deal was announced on Sunday.
Sanctioned by Israel's Ministerial Committee on Procurement, this acquisition is the first phase of a 350 billion shekel (£119 billion) plan. It aims to bolster the military and "strengthen readiness ahead of a demanding decade for Israeli security," the ministry added.
These squadrons will form a cornerstone of long-term force development, addressing regional threats and preserving Israel’s strategic air superiority.
"Alongside immediate wartime procurement needs, we have a responsibility to act now to secure the IDF’s military edge ten years from now and beyond," said ministry director general Amir Baram, referring to the Israel Defense Forces.
The recent war with Iran "reinforced just how critical the U.S.-Israel strategic relationship is, and how essential advanced air power remains," he added.
Under the deal, Israel would buy a fourth F-35 squadron from Lockheed Martin and a second squadron of F-15IA fighter jets from Boeing.
In December, Boeing was given an $8.6 billion contract for Israel including 25 new F-15IAs and an option for 25 more.
open image in gallery A F-35 fighter jet flies during a graduation ceremony for Israeli Air Force pilots at Hatzerim Airbase, in southern Israel, June 29, 2023 ( Reuters )
Baram said the next step would be to move forward with finalizing the agreements with the U.S. government and military counterparts.
The U.S. and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran on February 28, but a ceasefire has been in place since April 8. The U.S. Navy maintains a blockade of Iranian ports.
Defence Minister Israel Katz said the Iranian conflict demonstrated the air force's power and its decisive role in protecting Israel.
"The lessons of that campaign require us to keep pressing forward on force buildup, to ensure air superiority for decades to come," he said.
Israeli aircraft have also attacked Iranian-backed Hamas militants in Gaza and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel.
Katz said the new aircraft would lead to a significant technological leap in integrating autonomous flight capabilities, next-generation defence systems, and establishing Israeli military dominance in space.
"Our mission is clear: to ensure the IDF has the tools, capabilities, and strength to operate anywhere, at any time," Katz said. "We will continue to invest, to grow stronger, and to stay ahead of our enemies - to keep Israel secure today and in the future."