Israel approves additional combat squadrons

Israel is increasing its buy of both the F-35I (pictured) and F-15IA combat aircraft. (Israeli Air Force)

Israel has approved the procurement of an additional two squadrons of combat aircraft, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on 3 May 2026.

The procurement of a fourth squadron of Lockheed Martin F-35I Adir and a second squadron of Boeing F-15IA combat aircraft was approved by the Ministerial Committee on Procurement.

“This is the first step in executing the Israel Defense Force's [IDF's] decade-long force buildup plan, approved by the Prime Minister [Benjamin Netanyahu] and Defence Minister [Israel Katz] under a dedicated INS350 billion [USD119 billion] budget,” the MoD said. “The new squadrons will serve as a cornerstone of the IDF's long-term force development, addressing evolving regional threats and preserving Israel's strategic air superiority.”

While aircraft numbers were not given in the announcement, an Israeli Air Force (IAF) tactical combat aircraft squadron typically comprises between 20 and 30 airframes. With national approval secured, the Israeli MoD will now move forward with finalising the agreements with US government and military counterparts.

Separately, the MoD announced on 4 May that the first of six Boeing KC-46A Gideon tankers had made its maiden flight in the US ahead of delivery to the IAF in June 2026.

For more, please see:Israel stands up new ‘Adir' squadronBoeing to build F-15s for Israel