Israel signs $34 million deal to extend F-35 fighter jet range
Israel announced the signing of a contract worth more than $34 million to develop an extended-range capability for the F-35 Adir fighter jet. The deal covers the development and integration of external fuel tanks, expected to extend the aircraft's operational range and reduce reliance on aerial refueling.
Israel announced Thursday the signing of a contract worth more than $34 million to develop "an extended-range" capability for the F-35 Adir fighter jet. The Defense Ministry said in a statement that its Defense Procurement Directorate signed the deal with Cyclone, a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems.
Fuel tank development
The agreement covers "the development of an extended-range capability for the F-35 'Adir' fighter jet, manufactured by Lockheed Martin," the statement added. "The deal, valued at over $34 million (over NIS 100 million), covers the development and integration of external fuel tanks based on an existing Cyclone design originally developed for the F-16."
Operational benefits
The new capability is expected to extend the aircraft's "operational range, reduce reliance on aerial refueling, and enhance operational flexibility across long-range missions," the ministry said.
Regional context
The deal comes amid regional tensions following the US-Israeli strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, which triggered retaliation from Tehran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire took effect April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but talks failed to produce a lasting agreement. According to Israeli media, Tel Aviv has raised its military alert level in preparation for a possible resumption of war if negotiations between Tehran and Washington fail.
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