Israel has formally requested the purchase of 25 more F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation fighter jets from the US for $3bn

The Israeli Air Force's fleet of fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets will increase by one and a half times. The country has officially requested the purchase of the aircraft.

Here's What We Know

The Israeli version of the aircraft is called the F-35I Adir. The Israeli Defence Ministry sent an official letter requesting the purchase of fighter jets to speed up the formation of the third squadron. The ministry did not specify when deliveries would begin.

The deal is estimated at $3bn. The purchase of 25 fifth-generation F-35I fighters will be financed by US military aid. According to The Jerusalem Post, Israel will receive the jets starting from 2026-2027.

The country needs the F-35Is to effectively strike Iranian formations in Syria. The Israeli Air Force now has 50 aircraft in service in two squadrons. The Adir version is characterised by the use of Israeli-made components and the ability to carry Spice-100, Python-5, Stunner missiles and MPR-500 bombs.

Source: The Jerusalem Post