Israel Approves Purchase of Third Squadron of F-35 Fighters

The Israeli Ministry of Defense announced on Sunday that it will purchase a third squadron of F-35 fighters in a deal valued at three billion dollars. The twenty-five aircraft will be manufactured by Lockheed Martin, raising the total number of F-35s in the Israeli Air Force to 75. The ministry noted that "Lockheed Martin" and "Pratt & Whitney," the engine manufacturer, have agreed to involve Israeli defense companies in the production of components for these aircraft. The deal will be funded through aid provided by the United States to the Israeli military. Israel is the first country outside the United States to acquire F-35 fighters. In May 2018, the Israeli Air Force commander stated, "We will be the first country to use this aircraft in combat operations." These fighters are also known as the "Lightning II" and in Israel, they are referred to by their Hebrew name, "Adir."