The Defense Ministry finalized Tuesday a massive $3 billion agreement with the US government to acquire a third squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets for the Israel Air Force. The deal followed committee approval after Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich reached an accord last week.
The purchase highlights Israel's push to dramatically expand its aerial capabilities amid regional tensions. As reported by Israel Hayom in January, the plan calls for Israel to buy four more squadrons of advanced fighter jets and two combat helicopter squadrons in a series of deals potentially worth tens of billions of dollars.
The deal was signed by Brigadier General (Ret.) Mishel Ben Baruch, head of the Defense Ministry's US procurement delegation. It covers 25 F-35s manufactured by Lockheed Martin, along with support and maintenance. Once delivered, Israel's fleet of the world's most advanced stealth fighters will grow to 75 aircraft. Deliveries to the IAF will begin in 2028 at a rate of 3 to 5 jets annually.
Funded by $3 billion in US aid, the agreement requires Lockheed Martin and engine-maker Pratt & Whitney to involve Israeli companies in the production of the F-35s sold to other nations, per an earlier government-to-government pact.
"This procurement underscores the strength of the strategic US-Israel alliance and its far-ranging impact across regions near and far," Gallant said. "At a time when rivals hope to weaken our profound bond with our greatest ally, our security and strategic ties with the United States receive meaningful reinforcement, sending a resounding message to all our regional adversaries."
