Israel on Sunday authorized a multi-billion-dollar fighter aircraft purchase from the United States that will add two new combat squadrons to its air force. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the deal would reinforce the nation’s aerial superiority.
The agreement covers the acquisition of a squadron of Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighters produced by Lockheed Martin and a squadron of F-15IA jets manufactured by Boeing, according to the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
Defense Minister Israel Katz described the acquisitions as a key pillar of the “Shield of Israel” initiative, aimed at ensuring the Israel Defense Forces maintain a long-term qualitative military advantage.
Already operating multiple Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II aircraft, Israel considers the stealth jet one of the most advanced combat platforms in service globally. Netanyahu said the new procurement would further secure the country’s dominant air power while also highlighting ambitions to develop more indigenous defense systems and fighter aircraft.
Israeli air power has been heavily employed in the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, where thousands of airstrikes have targeted positions linked to Hamas, including underground tunnels, command facilities, and rocket launch infrastructure. Large sections of the territory, including civilian infrastructure, have also sustained severe damage.
Over the past year, Israel has additionally conducted long-range aerial operations during two separate confrontations with Iran. Israeli authorities said the strikes focused on degrading Iran’s strategic capabilities, while Iranian officials reported extensive attacks on key urban and industrial sites.
The new fighter procurement coincides with Israel’s approval of a higher defense budget for 2026, reflecting continued growth in military spending since the October 2023 attacks carried out by Hamas. Israel also remains engaged in hostilities with the Iran-backed Hezbollah group operating in southern Lebanon.
