Israel approves a deal to purchase fighter aircraft from the United States

Israel on Sunday approved a multi-billion-dollar deal to purchase two squadrons of combat aircraft from the United States, which, according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, would “strengthen” the Hebrew state’s air superiority.

The deal includes the purchase of a squadron of F-35 multi-role stealth fighters from Lockheed Martin, and another squadron of F-15IA aircraft from Boeing, according to what the Israeli Ministry of Defense said.

Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement that the deal aims to “ensure Israel’s air superiority for decades to come.”

He added, “The acquisition of F-35 and F-15IA aircraft represents a cornerstone of the Israel Shield plan, which aims to give the Israeli army a permanent qualitative superiority.”

The F-35, the result of a joint project between the United States and a number of its allies, is considered one of the most advanced military aircraft in the world, and Israel already owns dozens of them.

Netanyahu said the deal would enhance Israel’s “significant air superiority,” but pledged to begin manufacturing weapons and fighter planes locally.

He added, “Our pilots can reach anywhere in Iran’s airspace and are ready to do so if necessary.”

The Prime Minister continued, “During the next decade, we will add 350 billion shekels ($118 billion) to the defense budget in order to manufacture these weapons inside Israel and not depend on foreign suppliers.”

He pointed out, “At the same time, we will develop pioneering blue and white aircraft, which will completely change the picture,” referring to the colors of the Israeli flag and local manufacturing.