Flash News: Israel's Air Force Boosts Combat Readiness with Three More US-Made F-35I Adir Stealth Fighters.

On March 16, 2025, three additional F-35I "Adir" stealth multirole fighters arrived at Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel, marking a significant enhancement of the Israeli Air Force's (IAF) capabilities. These aircraft—tail numbers “963,” “966,” and “967”—were delivered by Lockheed Martin from its production facility in Fort Worth, Texas. The new fighters will join the 116th Squadron, also known as the "Lions of the South," bringing Israel's fleet of F-35s to 42 out of the original order of 50. This milestone comes after the IAF began receiving the F-35I in 2017, with the aircraft having been in active service since 2018.
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Three F-35I 'Adir' stealth multirole fighters arrive at Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel, joining the Israeli Air Force's 116th Squadron, 'Lions of the South.' The new additions bring Israel's fleet of F-35Is to 42 out of the original 50 aircraft ordered, marking a significant boost to the nation's air defense capabilities. (Picture source: Israeli Air Force)

The F-35I “Adir” is a customized version of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of the Israeli Air Force. The F-35 Lightning II itself is a family of stealth multirole fighters designed to fulfill the needs of multiple branches of the U.S. military as well as numerous allied nations. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 program includes three variants: the F-35A (conventional takeoff and landing, or CTOL), F-35B (short takeoff and vertical landing, or STOVL), and F-35C (carrier-based, or CV). The F-35 is renowned for its advanced stealth features, cutting-edge sensors, and multirole capabilities, which allow it to perform a wide range of missions, including air superiority, precision strikes, and deep interdiction.

Israel’s F-35I variant retains the advanced stealth and multirole combat capabilities of the base F-35, but includes several modifications specifically designed for Israeli defense needs. These include a custom-built electronic warfare suite, advanced communications systems, and weapons tailored to Israel’s operational requirements. The F-35I has proven itself in combat since its induction in 2018, further cementing its reputation as a cornerstone of Israel’s defense strategy.

The development of the F-35 program faced numerous technical challenges and delays but officially entered service with the U.S. in 2015. Israel became the first foreign country to acquire the F-35, with its F-35I variant entering service in 2018. The original deal for the F-35s was finalized in 2010, with Israel initially ordering 25 units, later expanding the order to 50. This agreement was valued at over $2.75 billion and was part of the broader U.S.-Israel defense relationship, underscoring America’s commitment to ensuring Israel maintains a technological edge in the Middle East.

The delivery of these additional F-35Is highlights the ongoing, strong military cooperation between the U.S. and Israel. The F-35s are part of a larger security partnership between the two nations, which has seen Israel acquire several generations of advanced military technology. The F-35I is the latest reflection of this deep relationship, symbolizing not just a technological upgrade but also a strategic alignment between the U.S. and Israel.

Nevatim Airbase, located in southern Israel, continues to serve as the primary home for the F-35I fleet. The 116th Squadron, the “Lions of the South,” is tasked with operating the aircraft and ensuring rapid deployment at a moment’s notice. This squadron has been operating the F-35I since its initial induction and is among the first to integrate the advanced stealth fighter into its operational structure fully. The strategic location of Negev Airbase and its role in housing the F-35I make it a vital asset for Israel, offering quick response capabilities to threats from Israel’s southern and eastern borders.

The addition of these three F-35Is further strengthens Israel’s airpower and its ability to maintain air superiority in an increasingly volatile region. In addition to the F-35, Israel has also invested heavily in missile defense systems such as the Iron Dome and David’s Sling, fortifying its defense posture against missile threats. The expansion of the F-35I fleet is a crucial part of Israel’s broader military strategy, which focuses on maintaining technological superiority in the face of growing regional security challenges.

The arrival of these three F-35I “Adir” fighters marks another significant step in Israel’s efforts to modernize its air force and reinforce its defense capabilities. With this delivery, the Israeli Air Force continues to strengthen its deterrence capabilities, ensuring that Israel is well-prepared to address any emerging threats. The U.S.-Israel defense relationship remains a key factor in this process, with the F-35I serving as a powerful tool to enhance Israel’s defense capabilities and maintain regional stability.