[48387] Israel approves expansion of the air fleet: new F-35 and F-15 squadrons on the way
[48387] Israel approves expansion of the air fleet: new F-35 and F-15 squadrons on the way
The security establishment has approved the establishment of the fourth squadron of F-35 aircraft, alongside extensive procurement of F-15IA aircraft, a move that will bring the 'Adir' fleet to about 100 aircraft.
Israel expands its air power: approval for new squadrons
In a significant move to strengthen the air superiority of the Air Force, the establishment of a fourth F-35 "Adir" squadron was approved today (May 3, 2026). According to a report by the Osint613 channel, this move is expected to expand the Israeli fleet to about 100 aircraft of this type. The Air Force currently operates two active squadrons (140 and 116) at Nevatim Airbase, with a third squadron, approved back in 2024, expected to become operational by 2028.
At the same time, a report by MeLive007 revealed that Israel has approved the procurement of additional squadrons, including not only F-35 aircraft but also F-15IA aircraft, at a cost of "tens of billions of shekels."
The Ekenewhite channel echoed the Osint613 data and added a strategic assessment that expanding the fleet will make Israel an unstoppable force, noting that "they can deal with any adversary at any time and anywhere."
These sources, which present a line identified with security and strategic coverage, emphasize the Israeli aspiration to maintain a significant qualitative and technological gap in the Middle East through 5th-generation aircraft and massive procurement of advanced models.