Israel has signed a $34-million agreement with Elbit Systems subsidiary Cyclone for the development of external fuel tanks intended for the Israeli Air Force’s F-35I “Adir” stealth fighters.
The project involves adapting and integrating fuel tank technology based on Cyclone’s previously developed system for the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
Adding external fuel tanks to Israel’s customized variant of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is expected to significantly extend mission endurance while reducing dependence on airborne refueling support, a capability that can become operationally demanding during long-range strike missions.
The contract supports the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s ongoing force modernization efforts aimed at reinforcing wartime preparedness and maintaining the country’s strategic and aerial superiority in the Middle East.
The development comes shortly after Israel announced plans to double its F-35 fleet from 50 to 100 aircraft, while also increasing planned procurement of F-15IA fighters from 25 to 50 units.
Fuel Tanks for Long-Range Missions
The F-35I was reportedly equipped with external fuel tanks during Israel’s 2025 Operation Rising Lion against Iran.
Throughout the more than 12-day operation, Israeli aircraft reportedly conducted around 1,500 sorties, with mission distances averaging roughly 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) one-way — far exceeding the fighter’s estimated standard combat radius of approximately 750 miles (1,207 kilometers).
Reports referencing Israeli publication Maariv stated that the increased range was enabled through the combined use of external and conformal fuel tanks.
Elbit Systems developed a 425-gallon (1,609-liter) external fuel tank mounted beneath the wings, which can be discarded prior to entering hostile airspace. In addition, an 800-gallon (3,028-liter) conformal fuel tank created in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries and Lockheed Martin is attached closely to the aircraft’s fuselage to help preserve stealth performance.
