Israel Signs Contracts for US F-35 and F-15 Jets

Israel's defence ministry approved the purchase of two new combat squadrons of advanced F-35 and F-15IA fighter jets from Lockheed Martin and Boeing, marking the first phase of a 350 billion shekel (£119 billion) plan to strengthen military capabilities.

The multi-billion dollar deal, sanctioned by Israel's Ministerial Committee on Procurement, was announced on Sunday. It aims to bolster the military and strengthen readiness ahead of a demanding decade for Israeli security, according to the ministry.

These squadrons will form a cornerstone of long-term force development, addressing regional threats and preserving Israel’s strategic air superiority. Under the deal, Israel would buy a fourth F-35 squadron from Lockheed Martin and a second squadron of F-15IA fighter jets from Boeing. 6 billion contract for Israel including 25 new F-15IAs and an option for 25 more.

The acquisition is the first phase of a 350 billion shekel (£119 billion) plan, as stated in the defence ministry's announcement. "Alongside immediate wartime procurement needs, we have a responsibility to act now to secure the IDF’s military edge ten years from now and beyond," said Amir Baram, director general of Israel's defence ministry.

U.S. Government and military counterparts. U.S. and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran on February 28, with a ceasefire in place since April 8. U.S. Navy maintains a blockade of Iranian ports. Israeli aircraft have attacked Iranian-backed Hamas militants in Gaza and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said the Iranian conflict demonstrated the air force's power and its decisive role in protecting Israel. "The lessons of that campaign require us to keep pressing forward on force buildup, to ensure air superiority for decades to come," Katz stated.