Against the backdrop of mounting security tensions, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today (Sunday) unveiled the IDF’s strategic buildup plan for the next decade. The announcement follows the Defense Ministry’s statement that the ministerial committee on procurement approved over the weekend the purchase of two new fighter squadrons: a fourth squadron of F-35 “Adir” jets and a second squadron of F-15IA aircraft.
In his statement, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel must be significantly stronger than its enemies. “Our pilots can reach anywhere in Iranian skies, and they are ready to do so—if required,” he declared. The new aircraft, he said, will strengthen the air superiority demonstrated in Operations “Am Kalavi” and “Roaring Lion.”
The massive deal, estimated at tens of billions of shekels, includes not just the aircraft themselves but a full logistical package, spare parts, and technical support to ensure the system’s readiness for decades to come.
“I have directed investment in independent production capability for munitions,” the prime minister said. To achieve this, approximately ₪350 billion will be allocated to the defense budget over the next 10 years. The goal is to reduce dependence on foreign supply and produce “blue-and-white” munitions and future aircraft domestically.
Netanyahu also addressed evolving threats on the modern battlefield, revealing that a special project to counter the drone threat was established several weeks ago. “A progress report on this will be presented to me today. It will take time—but we’re on it.”