All articles tagged with #f 35i
Israel says its F-35I Adir shot down an Iranian Yak-130 over Tehran on March 4, 2026—the world’s first downing of a manned fighter by an F-35—with a video released on March 5; the Yak-130, used by IRIAF for training and light attack, was reportedly involved in counter-drone operations amid ongoing air campaigns against Iran.
Israel has confirmed that its F-35I stealth fighters were used to intercept and bring down a cruise missile during the current Gaza conflict. This marks the first time an F-35I has been used to destroy a target of this kind. The missile was likely launched by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen, and the interception demonstrates the F-35I's capabilities in countering cruise missiles and drones. Israel has a history of adapting U.S.-provided military aircraft to its specifications, and its F-35I fleet is equipped with advanced sensor systems and weapons. The use of the F-35I in combat operations is not surprising, as Israel has previously used the aircraft in offensive operations and successfully engaged Iranian drones.