Three more F-35 fighter jets land in Israel, bringing IAF’s fleet to 48: Report

According to a report by The Times of Israel, three new F-35I fighter jets have landed in Israel, the military confirmed on Sunday, increasing the Israeli Air Force’s (IAF) fleet of fifth-generation stealth aircraft to 48.

The jets arrived from the United States at Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel, where they will be integrated into the IAF’s 116th and 140th squadrons.

The delivery forms part of Israel’s initial order of 50 F-35I jets. According to military sources, the arrival of the latest aircraft is not connected to the ongoing tensions with Iran. These jets will join the previously delivered F-35I aircraft, further strengthening the capabilities of the IAF’s existing stealth fleet.

In addition to the current fleet, Israel has placed a new order for 25 additional F-35 jets from US defense contractor Lockheed Martin in 2024. These aircraft are expected to be delivered starting in 2028, which will expand the IAF’s total number of fifth-generation fighter jets to 75 once the deliveries are complete.

The F-35I, the Israeli variant of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, is designed as a fifth-generation stealth fighter capable of conducting advanced air combat and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft feature upgraded avionics and Israeli-specific systems to meet the requirements of the IAF.

The newly arrived jets will undergo a process of integration and testing before being fully operational within the two squadrons. The 116th and 140th squadrons are responsible for maintaining Israel’s strategic air defense and operational readiness, and the addition of the new aircraft will further enhance their operational capacity.

The arrival of these three F-35I jets underscores Israel’s ongoing investment in advanced military technology and modernisation of its air force. The IAF continues to maintain one of the most advanced and capable air forces in the region, with a focus on maintaining technological superiority.

As Israel continues to expand its fleet, the combination of the original order and the 2024 acquisition ensures that the IAF will continue to operate a robust and technologically advanced stealth fleet for years to come.

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