# Israel has approved a plan to acquire two new combat squadrons of F-35 Lightning II and F-15IA aircraft from Lockheed Martin and Boeing.

*aerospace · news · 2026-05-03 · Hindustan Times*

## Key points

- Israel approved acquisition of fourth F-35 and second F-15IA squadrons for tens of billions.
- The deal forms part of a 350 billion shekel plan to strengthen Israeli military capabilities.
- F-35 and F-15IA jets will feature autonomous flight and next-generation defense systems integration.
- The long-term fleet will include about 100 F-35s, over 100 upgraded F-16s, and up to 50 F-15IAs.
- Recent US-Iran conflict saw US F-15Es downed by Iranian air defenses and friendly fire.

**Companies:** Lockheed Martin, Boeing
**Countries:** Israel, United States

[Read the full story on Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/israel-approves-multi-billion-deal-for-new-f-35-f-15ia-fighter-jets-all-about-the-agreement-101777799851901.html)

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