A US Marines F-35 lightning taxis on the runway at the Marine Corp Air Station / Envato Market

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – Israel is moving decisively to strengthen its air dominance in the Middle East, approving the purchase of two additional squadrons of advanced fighter jets from the United States following lessons learned during the recent war with Iran.

The Israeli Defense Ministry announced Sunday that a high-level procurement committee has authorized plans to acquire a fourth squadron of F-35I stealth fighters from Lockheed Martin and a second squadron of F-15IA jets from Boeing. The deals, valued at tens of billions of shekels, mark a significant expansion of Israel’s long-term military capabilities.

Israel gave final approval for a plan to purchase two new combat squadrons of F-35 and F-15IA advanced fighter aircraft from Lockheed Martin and Boeing in a deal worth tens of billions of dollars, the defense ‌ministry said on Sunday. https://t.co/0xRgrXEDP9

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According to officials, the new aircraft will serve as a cornerstone of Israel’s defense strategy, ensuring continued air superiority amid rapidly evolving regional threats. Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram has already instructed Israeli representatives in Washington to proceed with finalizing agreements with U.S. defense counterparts.

Once completed, the acquisition will bring Israel’s fleet to approximately 100 F-35I jets and 50 F-15IA aircraft in the coming years. Israel currently operates 48 F-35Is, with additional deliveries expected to begin in 2028. The first F-15IA jets from a prior order are projected to arrive starting in 2031.

Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that the recent conflict with Iran underscored the decisive role of air power in national security.

“The lessons of that campaign require us to keep pressing forward on force buildup, to ensure air superiority for decades to come,” Katz said.

The 40-day conflict, referred to as “Operation Roaring Lion,” highlighted both the intensity of modern warfare and the importance of technological superiority. Israeli Air Force leadership noted that the procurement decision followed years of strategic evaluation and reflects the need to adapt to growing threats across the region.

Outgoing Air Force Chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar stated that the new squadrons will significantly enhance operational flexibility and readiness, ensuring Israel can respond swiftly and effectively to any future challenges.

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