Israel Expands F-35 Fleet with 25 New Stealth Jets

Israel's Defense Ministry and military have approved the procurement of a third squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets from the United States, bringing the Israeli Air Force's F-35i fleet to 75 aircraft. The deal, estimated at $3 billion, will be financed by US military aid to Israel. Israel is the second country to receive the F-35 and one of the few allowed to modify the aircraft. The agreement also ensures the involvement of Israeli defense industries in the production of aircraft components. The F-35 is praised for its offensive capabilities, stealth features, and ability to connect with other aircraft for information sharing.