Israel Greenlights Purchase of F-35 and F-15I Jets from US

• The purchase includes two squadrons combining F-35 stealth fighters from Lockheed Martin and F-15Ia jets from Boeing
• The deal is worth tens of billions of shekels, representing a major defense investment by Israel
• The approval comes amid ongoing regional tensions, as referenced by Reuters' Iran Briefing newsletter mentioned in the article

Summary: Israel Approves Multi-Billion Shekel Fighter Jet Purchase

Israel's defense ministry announced final approval on Sunday, May 3, for the acquisition of two new combat squadrons comprising F-35 and F-15Ia aircraft from U.S. defense contractors Lockheed Martin and Boeing.

Key Details:

The deal is valued at "tens of billions of shekels," though specific dollar amounts were not disclosed in the announcement. The purchase will include aircraft from both manufacturers, with F-35 jets supplied by Lockheed Martin and F-15Ia fighters from Boeing.

Companies Involved:

• Lockheed Martin: Supplier of F-35 stealth fighter jets
• Boeing: Supplier of F-15Ia advanced fighter aircraft

Market Implications:

This substantial defense procurement represents a significant win for both U.S. aerospace giants, bolstering their order books in the military aviation sector. The deal strengthens the long-standing defense partnership between Israel and the United States and comes amid ongoing regional security concerns, as suggested by the Reuters Iran Briefing newsletter reference in the original article.

The approval provides revenue visibility for both contractors' fighter jet programs. Lockheed Martin's F-35 program continues to secure international orders, while Boeing's F-15 line receives a boost through the advanced F-15Ia variant specifically configured for Israeli requirements.

Timing:

The final approval was granted on May 3, 2026, positioning both companies to execute on the multi-squadron delivery over the coming years. The investment underscores Israel's commitment to maintaining air superiority capabilities and modernizing its air force fleet.