Israel is moving decisively to strengthen its air dominance in the Middle East, approving the purchase of two additional squadrons of advanced fighter jets from the United States following critical lessons learned during the recent war with Iran.

The Israeli Defense Ministry announced Sunday that a high-level procurement committee has authorized plans to acquire a fourth squadron of F-35I stealth fighters from Lockheed Martin and a second squadron of F-15IA jets from Boeing. The deals, valued at tens of billions of shekels, mark a significant expansion of Israel’s long-term military capabilities.

According to officials, the new aircraft will serve as a cornerstone of Israel’s defense strategy, ensuring continued air superiority amid rapidly evolving regional threats. Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram has already instructed Israeli representatives in Washington to proceed with finalizing agreements with U.S. defense counterparts.

Once completed, the acquisition will bring Israel’s fleet to approximately 100 F-35I jets and 50 F-15IA aircraft in the coming years. Israel currently operates 48 F-35Is, with additional deliveries expected to begin in 2028. The first F-15IA jets from a prior order are projected to arrive starting in 2031.

The 40-day conflict, referred to as “Operation Roaring Lion,” highlighted both the intensity of modern warfare and the importance of technological superiority. Israeli Air Force leadership noted that the procurement decision followed years of strategic evaluation and reflects the need to adapt to growing threats across the region.

Outgoing Air Force Chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar stated that the new squadrons will significantly enhance operational flexibility and readiness, ensuring Israel can respond swiftly and effectively to any future challenges.

Israel received a massive influx of military supplies this week as the United States accelerated efforts to bolster the Jewish nation’s defense amid growing expectations that fighting with Iran could reignite within days.

According to Israel’s Defense Ministry, two cargo ships docked at Ashdod and Haifa ports within a 24-hour window, delivering approximately 6,500 tons of munitions and military equipment. The shipment included ground munitions, military trucks, and advanced Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), underscoring the scale of the operation.

The overnight delivery, coordinated between Wednesday and Thursday, was part of a broader logistical effort led by the Israel Ministry of Defense’s Defense Procurement Directorate in partnership with its International Shipping Division, its U.S. mission, and the IDF’s Planning Directorate.

Upon arrival, the equipment was rapidly distributed across the country. Hundreds of trucks transported the materiel to IDF bases under the supervision of Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram, who personally oversaw operations at Ashdod port.

Baram emphasized that the resupply effort is ongoing and strategic, noting that preparations are being made for what officials describe as a “demanding security decade ahead.”

Defense Minister Israel Katz reinforced the message of readiness, stating that Israel is prepared to act decisively against threats on any front. He described the expanding air and sea bridge as essential to maintaining operational superiority and ensuring the IDF can return to full-scale combat at a moment’s notice.

Since the launch of “Operation Roaring Lion” on February 28, Israel has received more than 115,600 tons of military equipment through over 400 airlifts and multiple sea shipments — reflecting an unprecedented level of logistical support as tensions across the region continue to rise.

Together, the procurement authorization and resupply operations paint a picture of a nation not winding down, but actively preparing for the next chapter — with air power, ammunition stocks, and alliance commitments all pointing in one decisive direction.

Sources: Faith & Freedom News staff reporting; Israeli Defense Ministry announcements; statements by Defense Minister Katz, Dir. Gen. Baram, and outgoing IAF Chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar. Related coverage: 5,500 Targets Struck — CENTCOM Sweeping Gains.