Israel Approves Purchase of F-35 and F-15IA Fighter Jets from Lockheed and Boeing
Israel has finalized a significant defense procurement plan, approving the purchase of two new combat squadrons of advanced fighter aircraft from U.S. manufacturers Lockheed Martin and Boeing. This decision, announced by Israel's Ministerial Committee on Procurement, involves acquiring a fourth squadron of F-35 jets and a second squadron of F-15IA jets. The deal is part of a broader 350 billion shekel ($119 billion) initiative aimed at enhancing Israel's military capabilities over the next decade. The procurement is seen as a response to recent conflicts, including a war with Iran, which underscored the importance of maintaining air superiority. The Israeli Defense Ministry emphasized the strategic necessity of these acquisitions to address evolving regional threats and ensure long-term military dominance.