According to an Anadolu English report of Sunday 3 of May 2026, Israel has approved the acquisition of additional US-made fighter jets as part of a major military procurement plan. The fresh development was allegedly announced by the Israeli Defense Ministry against the backdrop of continued regional tensions involving Iran.
In a statement on Sunday, the ministry said a ministerial committee responsible for procurement has authorised the purchase of two new squadrons, including a fourth squadron of F-35 fighter jets and a second squadron of F-15IA aircraft.
The ministry said the programme forms part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s air combat capabilities and long-term operational readiness.
The deals are valued at “tens of billions” of shekels and include long-term technical and operational support.
“The deals valued at “tens of billions” of shekels and “include full fleet integration into the Israeli Air Force, comprehensive sustainment, spare parts and logistics support,” the statement said.
Officials said the package also covers full integration of the aircraft into the Israeli Air Force structure, along with maintenance systems, spare parts supply chains and logistical backing designed to sustain long-term operations.
The decision comes as Israel continues military activity in Gaza and Lebanon despite existing ceasefire arrangements. Reports also indicate that Israeli defence planning is factoring in the possibility of renewed confrontation with Iran, following months of heightened regional tensions.
The wider regional situation escalated after the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28. The attacks triggered retaliation from Tehran against Israel and other countries in the region hosting US military assets. The confrontation also disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route.
Diplomatic efforts briefly slowed the escalation when a ceasefire was announced on April 8 through mediation by Pakistan. This was followed by talks between US and Iranian representatives in Islamabad on April 11 and 12. However, those discussions ended without agreement on a lasting settlement.
US President, Donald Trump, later extended the ceasefire at the request of Pakistan, though no new timeframe was set. The absence of a defined deadline has left the truce uncertain, with tensions continuing across multiple fronts in the region……See More
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