Israel Finalizes Multi-Billion Dollar Purchase of US F-35 and F-15 Jets for Two Squadrons
Israel's defense ministry has approved a plan to buy two new squadrons of F-35 and F-15Ia aircraft from Lockheed Martin and Boeing. The deal, worth tens of billions of shekels, comes amid reflections on recent conflicts. A U.S. military officer highlighted the role of American support in Israel's air defenses during the 12 Day War.
en.globes.co.ilIsrael's defense ministry approved a plan to purchase new F-35 and F-15 fighter jets from the United States, finalizing a deal for two combat squadrons of F-35 and F-15Ia aircraft from Lockheed Martin and Boeing. The agreement, worth tens of billions of shekels, was announced on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Jerusalem.
This move follows insights from the recent 12 Day War, where a ballistic missile hit a location in Beersheba, Israel.
Lt. Col. Anthony Aguilar was on the ground in Beersheba, a block from where the ballistic missile hit. He watched Israel's air defense system nearly collapse in real time during the conflict. Lt. Col.
U.S. support for Israel's defense capabilities, as highlighted by events in Beersheba during the 12 Day War.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
4 events- 2026-05-03
Israel's defense ministry announced approval for purchase of F-35 and F-15Ia aircraft from Lockheed Martin and Boeing in Jerusalem.
2 sourcesIsrael's defense ministry · Reuters - Recent (during 12 Day War)
Lt. Col. Anthony Aguilar observed Israel's air defense system nearly collapse in real time in Beersheba.
1 sourceLt. Col. Anthony Aguilar - Recent (during 12 Day War)
A ballistic missile hit a location in Beersheba, Israel, with Lt. Col. Anthony Aguilar present a block away.
1 sourceLt. Col. Anthony Aguilar - Recent (during 12 Day War)
Lt. Col. Anthony Aguilar stated the importance of U.S. radar support to prevent Iron Dome overload.
1 sourceLt. Col. Anthony Aguilar
Potential Impact
- 01
Enhancement of Israel's air combat capabilities through new fighter jet squadrons.
- 02
Potential revenue boost for Lockheed Martin and Boeing from the multi-billion deal.
- 03
Strengthened U.S.-Israel military ties via radar and munitions support in recent conflicts.
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