The Israeli Air Force continues to enhance its fifth-generation combat aircraft capability. Most recently, three new F-35I Adir fighter jets landed at Nevatim Air Base in southern Israel and were officially inducted into service. Manufactured by US-based defense giant Lockheed Martin, these deliveries raise Israel’s operational F-35 fleet to a total of 48 aircraft.

The latest delivery is part of Israel’s long-term participation in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program, which the country joined in 2010. Under the current agreement, Israel is scheduled to receive a total of 50 F-35I Adir aircraft. While some deliveries were delayed beyond the original 2025 timeline, the remaining two jets are expected to arrive in Israel during 2026, completing the initial procurement phase.

At the same time, Israel is moving forward with plans to further expand its F-35 inventory. In 2023, an additional agreement was signed with the US government for the procurement of 25 more F-35 aircraft. Once finalized, this deal will increase Israel’s total F-35 fleet to 75 jets and enable the establishment of a third F-35 squadron. Israeli officials anticipate that deliveries for this third squadron will begin in 2027.

Israel has been operating the F-35I Adir in combat roles since 2017. By early 2025, the aircraft had accumulated more than 15,000 flight hours across operational theaters including Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, and Yemen. During the Israel–Iran conflict in June 2025, F-35s reportedly played a key role in neutralizing Iranian radar systems and air defense assets.

Based on combat experience, the Israeli Air Force has modified its F-35I aircraft to carry external payloads. The integration of JDAM precision-guided munitions on underwing pylons reduced reliance on internal weapons bays, significantly increasing mission flexibility. With its stealth characteristics, advanced sensor fusion, and electronic warfare capabilities, the F-35I Adir provides superior intelligence, surveillance, and strike capabilities compared to legacy F-16 and F-15 platforms. These advantages are assessed to offer a significant edge against advanced air defense systems such as Iran’s S-300 and even S-400.

In parallel with the F-35 program, Israel is also investing in additional air power projects. The acquisition of 25 F-15EX fighter jets from the United States aims to modernize the existing F-15 fleet, while four KC-46A aerial refueling aircraft—under an agreement signed in November 2022—are expected to be delivered in the coming years.

Collectively, these systems are intended to expand Israel’s long-range strike capabilities and strengthen deterrence, particularly in scenarios involving potential operations against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.