Israel has signed a defense contract worth more than $34 million to improve the operational range of its F-35 Adir fighter jets as tensions with Iran continue to shape regional security dynamics.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Israeli Defense Ministry confirmed that its Defense Procurement Directorate finalized the agreement with Cyclone, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems.
The project will focus on developing extended-range capabilities for the F-35 Adir aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin. Officials said the program includes the integration of external fuel tanks based on an earlier Cyclone design originally created for F-16 fighter jets.
According to the ministry, the upgraded system is intended to increase the aircraft’s mission range, lower dependence on aerial refueling operations and improve flexibility during long-distance military missions.
The announcement comes amid heightened instability in the Middle East following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year. Tehran later launched retaliatory actions targeting Israel and American allies in the Gulf region, while disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz further intensified concerns over regional security.
A ceasefire brokered through Pakistani mediation took effect on April 8, though negotiations in Islamabad failed to achieve a permanent settlement. US President Donald Trump subsequently extended the truce without specifying an expiration date.
Israeli media outlets have reported that Tel Aviv has increased military readiness amid fears that conflict with Iran could reignite if diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran collapse.
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