Israel approves deal to buy fighter jets from US
The deal includes one squadron of F-35 stealth multi-role fighter jets produced by Lockheed Martin and another squadron of F-15IA aircraft manufactured by Boeing
ATT Correspondent 
Israel has approved a multi-billion-dollar agreement to purchase two squadrons of advanced fighter jets from the United States, the Defence Ministry said on Sunday.
The deal includes one squadron of F-35 stealth multi-role fighter jets produced by Lockheed Martin and another squadron of F-15IA aircraft manufactured by Boeing, reports AFP.
Defence Minister Israel Katz said the acquisition is aimed at ensuring Israel’s air superiority for decades under the government’s “Shield of Israel” defence strategy. He described the procurement as central to maintaining what he called the Israel Defence Forces’ (IDF) qualitative military edge.
“Our mission is to ensure the IDF has the tools, capabilities and strength to operate anywhere, at any time,” Katz said in a statement.
The F-35, developed jointly by the United States and allied nations, is considered one of the world’s most advanced combat aircraft. Israel already operates multiple squadrons of the aircraft.
The approval comes as Israel continues to expand its defence spending following prolonged regional conflicts, including the ongoing war in Gaza and recent military confrontations involving Iran and Hezbollah.
Israeli air operations have played a major role in regional conflicts, with officials describing recent strikes as precision attacks aimed at military targets, while critics have raised concerns over widespread destruction in civilian areas.
The defence budget for 2026 has already been increased significantly as part of efforts to strengthen long-term military preparedness amid escalating regional tensions.
