The F-35I Adir, a variant of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, is a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet uniquely tailored and customized for the Israeli Air Force (IAF).
The name “Adir,” meaning “Mighty One” in Hebrew, reflects its formidable capabilities and strategic importance to Israel.
While it may look like an ordinary F-35, the F-35 Adir is so much more under the surface.
But what exactly sets the F-35I apart from its American counterparts, and why exactly does Israel want this aircraft?
The F-35I Adir Comes to Israel
The F-35I Adir is a customized version of the F-35A, the conventional takeoff and landing variant of the F-35 Lightning II.
While the F-35A is used by several countries, the F-35I Adir incorporates unique modifications to meet Israel’s specific operational requirements.
These modifications include enhanced command and control systems, a unique electronic warfare suite, and the integration of Israeli-made weapons.
Israel’s journey with the F-35 began in October 2010 when it became the first foreign nation to select the F-35 through the U.S. government’s Foreign Military Sales process.
The first F-35I Adir was delivered to the IAF in December 2016, and since then, Israel has continued to expand its fleet, with plans to operate a total of 50 aircraft.
F-35I vs F-35A: What’s the Difference?
The F-35I Adir boasts several advanced capabilities that make it a critical asset for the IAF. It features advanced stealth technology, making it difficult for enemy radar to detect.
This capability allows the aircraft to penetrate heavily defended airspace and conduct missions with a lower risk of being targeted.
The F-35I Adir is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and sensors, providing pilots with unparalleled situational awareness. The aircraft’s Distributed Aperture System (DAS) and Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) enable pilots to detect and track targets with high precision.
One of the key modifications in the F-35I Adir is its unique electronic warfare suite, developed by Israeli defense companies.
This suite includes advanced sensors and countermeasures, enhancing the aircraft’s ability to operate in contested environments and counter enemy threats.
The F-35I Adir is capable of carrying a wide range of Israeli-made weapons, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, and precision-guided munitions.
This flexibility allows the IAF to tailor the aircraft’s armament to specific mission requirements.
The F-35I Adir is designed to operate as part of a network-centric warfare system, sharing real-time data with other aircraft, ground forces, and command centers.
This capability enhances the IAF’s ability to conduct coordinated operations and respond rapidly to emerging threats.
Additionally, Israel has secured the ability to conduct in-country maintenance for the F-35I Adir, significantly reducing operational costs and ensuring the aircraft’s readiness for combat.
Why Israel Wants the F-35I Adir
Israel’s acquisition of the F-35I Adir is driven by several strategic considerations. The Middle East is a region characterized by complex security challenges and potential adversaries with advanced air defense systems.
While the Assad regime in Syria is no longer a threat, Israel still has to worry about the threat from Iran and its proxies.
The F-35I Adir’s stealth capabilities and advanced avionics ensure that Israel maintains air superiority and can effectively counter threats from hostile nations and non-state actors.
The F-35I Adir serves as a powerful deterrent, signaling to potential adversaries that Israel possesses cutting-edge military technology.
The aircraft’s ability to conduct precision strikes and penetrate enemy defenses enhances Israel’s power projection capabilities, allowing it to respond decisively to any aggression.
The Adir’s versatility and multi-role capabilities make it suitable for a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, intelligence gathering, and electronic warfare. This operational flexibility is crucial for the IAF, enabling it to adapt to evolving threats and mission requirements. By integrating Israeli-made systems and weapons into the F-35I Adir, Israel ensures that it retains a technological edge over its adversaries. The ability to customize the aircraft to meet specific operational needs enhances its effectiveness and aligns with Israel’s defense strategy.
Unmatched Air Dominance but Slow Procurement
If there is one Issue with the F-35I, its that there aren’t enough of them.
In 2022, it was reported that Israel placed an initial order of 50 aircraft. As of June 2024, however, only 39 were delivered.
The slow delivery of F-35Is is a concern as they may have an impact on the battlefield effectiveness of the IAF in case a larger war breaks out in the region.
Despite the slow delivery rates, the acquisition of the F-35I Adir strengthens Israel’s strategic partnership with the United States.
The collaboration on the F-35 program fosters closer military ties and ensures that Israel remains a key ally in the region. Israel has already demonstrated the combat effectiveness of the F-35I Adir. In May 2018, the IAF became the first air force in the world to use the F-35 in combat, conducting airstrikes in Syria. The aircraft’s performance in these operations has validated its capabilities and reinforced its value to the IAF.
The F-35I Adir is a significant boost to Israel’s aerial capabilities. Its advanced stealth technology, electronic warfare suite, and integration of Israeli-made systems make it a formidable asset for the IAF.
By acquiring the F-35I Adir, Israel ensures that it maintains air superiority, enhances its deterrence and power projection capabilities, and retains a technological edge over its adversaries.
As the IAF continues to expand its fleet of F-35I Adirs, the aircraft will play a crucial role in safeguarding Israel’s national security and maintaining stability in the region.
About the Author: Isaac Seitz
Isaac Seitz, a 19FortyFive Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.
