Amid a tense situation in West Asia, Israel has approved a plan to purchase two new combat squadrons of F-35 and F-15IA advanced fighter jets from Lockheed Martin and Boeing. The Israeli Defence Ministry on Sunday said that the deal worth tens of billions of dollars was approved by the country's Ministerial Committee on Procurement.

The deal marks a first step in a $119 billion plan to bolster Israel's military and "strengthen readiness ahead of a demanding decade for Israeli security," it said.

Speaking about the plan, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that much of this expanded defence budget will be to produce munitions in Israel without being dependent on foreign countries.

He emphasised that Jerusalem will also develop "groundbreaking" aircraft. "Israel is stronger than ever, and Israel must always be much stronger than our enemies," Netanyahu said.

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As per the deal, Israel would buy a fourth F-35 squadron from Lockheed Martin and a second squadron of F-15IA fighter jets from Boeing.

Israel eyes long-term force development

The ministry stated the new squadrons will serve as a cornerstone of the military's long-term force development and would be consequential in addressing regional threats and preserving Israel's strategic air superiority.

"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 ministry Director General Amir Baram.

Boeing was given an $8.6 billion contract for 25 new F-15IAs and an option for 25 more in December.

Baram added that the recent war with Iran has "reinforced how critical the US-Israel strategic relationship is, and how essential advanced air power remains."

Baram said that the next step would be to move forward with finalising the agreements with the U.S. government and military counterparts.

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How the deal bolsters combat readiness

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said that the recent conflict with Iran demonstrated the power of the air force and its decisive role in protecting Israel, and hence, there is a need to maintain air superiority.

"The lessons of that campaign require us to keep pressing forward on force buildup, to ensure air superiority for decades to come," he said.

Since October 7, 2023, Israeli fighter jets have played a crucial role in targeting Iranian-backed Hamas militants in Gaza and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon.

Katz added that the new aircraft would lead to a significant technological leap in integrating autonomous flight capabilities, next-generation defence systems, and establishing Israeli military dominance in space.

"Our mission is clear: to ensure the IDF has the tools, capabilities, and strength to operate anywhere, at any time," Katz said.

"We will continue to invest, to grow stronger, and to stay ahead of our enemies - to keep Israel secure today and in the future."


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