Israel has signed a contract with the United States to purchase another 17 F-35 fighters, which will bring the Israeli Air Force fleet to 50 F-35 fighters. The Israeli Defense Minister: "It is a significant and strategic addition to the power of the Air Force".
It was announced today. For the first time, the price for this type of aircraft is under $ 100 million. After receiving the Jets, the Israeli Air Force will rise, as mentioned, to 50 fifth generation fighters, such as the F-35. The Israeli Defense Ministry delegation finalized the purchase in the US during the week. The 17 aircraft will be purchased by the US government JSF - Joint Fighter Program.
Israel's Security Cabinet approved the purchase as early as 2016, according to the agreement the aircraft will be delivered by 2024.
Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said with satisfaction that the Air Force will strengthen further and the F-35 Flight Group will make a greater contribution to the Israeli Defense Ministry and Air Force in countering the countless challenges facing it. State of Israel is facing ”. The Ministry of Defense therefore bought 50 copies. Five have already landed on the territory of Israel. By 2021, the Air Force will receive 33 aircraft from the previous two with contracts, to complete the delivery of the entire fleet by 2024.