3 new fighter jets arrive in Israel: The game-changer for air superiority in the Middle East

IDF bolsters air power with arrival of three new F-35i ‘Adir’ fighter jets. Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, these advanced stealth aircraft, proudly bearing the IAF insignia, have been assigned to the elite 116th Squadron. The arrival marks a milestone in Israel’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its aerial dominance amid escalating regional tensions, with the Adir fleet proving its worth since the war’s outset.

The 116th Squadron’s Adir jets have been a linchpin in Israel’s military operations, logging over 15,000 flight hours and executing thousands of sorties across multiple fronts. Their versatility has allowed the IAF to adapt swiftly to diverse mission demands, yielding critical operational insights. Originally designed with internal weapons bays for stealth, the Adir has undergone a groundbreaking evolution during the conflict. In a joint effort with Lockheed Martin and the Pentagon’s F-35 Program, the IAF’s Flight Test Center integrated a new capability: external JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) carriage on the jets’ wings. This modification has made Israel’s Adir the only F-35 variant worldwide to conduct combat strikes with external weaponry, dramatically boosting its payload and strike potential.

The expansion of the Adir fleet underscores a leap forward for the IAF’s tactical prowess. With their stealth technology, advanced sensors, and now-enhanced firepower, these jets provide unmatched flexibility in confronting threats across all theaters. The 116th Squadron’s combat-proven experience with the Adir has already reshaped aerial strategies, and the addition of three more aircraft promises to amplify that impact. As Israel navigates a volatile security landscape, the reinforced squadron stands ready to deliver precision and power, cementing the IAF’s reputation as a cutting-edge force. This latest acquisition not only elevates Israel’s deterrence but also signals its commitment to staying ahead in military innovation.