[48759] Israel approves massive purchase of two advanced fighter squadrons for the IDF

Israel approves historic purchase of advanced fighter squadrons

The Ministerial Committee on Procurement has approved the Ministry of Defense and IDF's plan to purchase two new fighter squadrons, with a budget amounting to tens of billions of shekels. This involves the purchase of a fourth "Adir" (F-35) squadron manufactured by Lockheed Martin, and a second squadron of F-15IA aircraft manufactured by Boeing, as reported extensively by Amit Segal, Hadashot MeHashtach on Telegram, and YINONEWS.

Minister of Defense, Israel Katz, explained the background to the decision: According to him, "The operational lessons from the campaign against Iran require us to accelerate force build-up. The purchase of the squadrons is a central part of the 'Shield of Israel' program, which is intended to ensure the IDF has a lasting qualitative advantage." The move enjoys support in the political system, with sources such as Abu Ali Express and Inon Shalom Yitach emphasizing the importance of the deal in the face of regional threats.

Commander of the Air Force, Major General Tomer Bar, noted that the decision was made following extensive staff work and a strategic situational assessment: "The acquisition is the result of close cooperation with the United States military, which intensified during Operation 'Lion's Roar' and constitutes a strategic component of national security." According to reports, in the Security-Political Cabinet, after the upcoming signing with the American administration, the Air Force will dramatically increase its capabilities, integrating stealth and precision with heavy munitions carrying capabilities.

This deal constitutes the first step in realizing the force build-up program for the coming decade, which Inon Shalom Yitach reported on, with a dedicated budget of approximately 350 billion NIS. Various media outlets, including ynet and Israel Hayom, note that logistics, support, and spare parts components are also included within the total scope of the deal.