June 4, 2024 – The Israeli Ministry of Defense has formalized an agreement with the U.S. government for the acquisition of a third squadron of “Adir” (F-35) aircraft, set to be integrated into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This significant development is aimed at bolstering Israel’s defense capabilities in response to evolving regional threats.
The official signing of the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) was carried out by Brigadier General (Ret.) Mishel Ben Baruch, head of the Israeli Ministry of Defense mission to the U.S. The agreement encompasses 25 F-35 aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin, along with comprehensive support and maintenance services. With this addition, the Israeli Air Force’s fleet of F-35s will expand to a total of 75 aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028, with an annual delivery rate of three to five aircraft.
Valued at approximately $3 billion, this transaction is financed through U.S. Foreign Military Financing (FMF). The agreement stipulates that Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney, the engine manufacturer, will involve Israeli industry in the production of F-35 aircraft for the U.S. and other nations. This procurement is part of a broader initiative by the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the IDF to enhance military capabilities and address both current and future security challenges.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant commented on the agreement:
“The procurement of the third F-35 squadron reflects the strength of the strategic alliance between Israel and the United States. This capability has a significant impact on arenas both near and far. At a time when some of our adversaries aim to undermine our ties with our greatest ally, we only further strengthen our alliance. This sends a powerful message to our enemies across the region. I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude to our partners in the U.S. Department of Defense and the wider U.S. government for reinforcing and ensuring Israel’s edge and strategic capabilities.”
Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Eyal Zamir, Director General of the Ministry of Defense, added:
“Initiated by the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the IDF before the war and approved by the Minister of Defense, the signing of the third F-35 squadron agreement concludes a significant procurement process and was accelerated during it. The Adir program and other initiatives we are advancing will help ensure the continued readiness of the IDF and the Air Force for multi-threat challenges in the coming years. We are grateful to the U.S. government, whose senior representatives we met last week in Washington, for supporting Israel’s security needs and maintaining its qualitative and technological edge for years to come.”
Included below are photos of Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Mishel Ben Baruch, the finance accountant of the mission Arieh Peretz, signing the agreement, and images of the Adir F-35 aircraft.–News Desk