Israel to Increase Stealth Fighter Jet Arsenal with Purchase of 25 F-35 Aircraft from the US
JERUSALEM (AP) – In a move that significantly bolsters its military capabilities, Israel has announced its plan to purchase 25 F-35 fighter jets from the United States. The Israeli Defense Ministry revealed this acquisition on Sunday, noting that it would increase Israel’s arsenal of stealth fighter jets by 50%.
Considered the world’s most advanced fighter jet, the F-35 holds a unique status in the Middle East, with Israel being the only country in the region to operate them. With a price tag of $3 billion, this deal is set to be finalized in the coming months, as stated by the ministry. The purchase will expand the Israeli fleet of F-35s from 50 to 75 aircraft.
To finance this transaction, Israel will rely on American military aid. Additionally, Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35, and Pratt & Whitney, the manufacturer of its engine, have pledged to involve Israeli companies in the production process.
“The new agreement will ensure the continuation of cooperation between American companies and Israeli defense industries in the production of aircraft parts,” the Defense Ministry stated in a press release.
Israel’s decision to expand its arsenal coincides with the current heightened tensions between Israel and Iran. With Iran being considered as Israel’s greatest adversary, the Israeli forces have previously utilized F-35 jets to shoot down Iranian drones. Moreover, Israel has not shied away from threatening long-range strikes on Iranian nuclear targets.
Throughout the years, Israel has accused Iran of pursuing the development of nuclear weapons, a claim that Iran vehemently denies. Israel allegedly conducted a series of attacks on Iranian nuclear experts and facilities within Iran as part of its efforts to counter Iranian entrenchment. This latest purchase of F-35s further solidifies Israel’s determination to maintain its military superiority in the region.
To demonstrate its military capabilities, Israel carried out an airstrike on the Syrian city of Homs on Sunday. This mission is just one of the numerous airstrikes conducted on government-controlled parts of Syria in recent years, as Israel seeks to counter the Iranian presence in the neighboring country.
With the acquisition of these advanced fighter jets, Israel aims not only to strengthen its defense capabilities but also to maintain its strategic advantage over its adversaries in the volatile Middle East region.
As tensions continue to simmer, all eyes are on Israel’s growing military prowess and its next move in countering the perceived threats from Iran and its allies.