Israel approves multi-billion dollar deal for new F-35 and F-15IA fighter squadrons

The Israeli Ministry of Defense has granted final approval for the procurement of two additional fighter jet squadrons, consisting of F-35s from Lockheed Martin and F-15IA aircraft from Boeing. This acquisition is part of a broader 350 billion shekel ($119 billion) military modernization plan designed to ensure long-term strategic air superiority. Ministry director general Amir Baram emphasized that this move is essential for maintaining military readiness over the next decade. The deal follows a previous $8.6 billion contract awarded to Boeing in December for 25 F-15IA jets, with an option for 25 more. Officials noted that the recent conflict with Iran underscored the importance of the U.S.-Israel strategic relationship and advanced aerial capabilities. The next phase of the process involves formalizing the agreements with the United States government and military authorities. While the provided texts mention airstrikes between the two nations on February 28 and a subsequent ceasefire on April 8, these details remain contextual background to the procurement decision.