Israeli Government Approves Purchase of American-made Fighter Jets

December 2, 2014

2 min read

On Sunday, the Israeli cabinet approved the purchase of 14 new F-35 fighter jets from American company Lockheed Martin, reports Ynetnews, however, that is down from the 31 Israel’s defense establishment asked for, according to Israel National News.

The stealth jets are considered state-of-the-art, but they are not yet operational. In 2010, Israel committed to buying 19 of them at $2.75 billion, for delivery between 2016 and 2018. The new purchase would be in addition to the original 19. Israel would also reserve the right to buy additional jets in the future.

Minister of Intelligence Yuval Steinitz and Minister of Agriculture Yair Shamir both objected to the proposed purchase. Steinitz cited concerns over the F-35’s range, payload and manoeuvrability. He also mentioned production problems, which have caused significant delays. “Since the plane is not yet operational in the US,” Steinitz said, “I suggested that we make do with the purchase of less than half the amount, and wait with decisions on purchasing additional jets, as several other countries – like Australia, Italy, Canada and Holland – have done.”

The two ministers argued 36 jets should be enough for the military, something the defense establishment rejects. They wish to see the IAF expanding its long-range mission capabilities to better serve Israel’s needs in the current regional political climate.

The purchase is part of a deal with Lockheed Martin to buy 50 F-35 jets in exchange for the American company buying $6 billion worth of Israeli equipment, as well as providing Israel with favorable credit conditions. Although the Americans did not alter their end of the bargain when Israel first reduced their commitment from 50 to 36, defense officials argue ordering the full 50 jets would improve US-Israel relations. Purchasing the final 17 jets, at a rate of $142 million per plane, would require another government discussion and approval process.

In addition to the concerns mentioned by Steinitz, unlike previous foreign-made planes, such as the F-15 or F-16, the F-35 would come with American-made electronic systems that cannot be altered or replaced by Israeli systems. The Americans would also be able to supervise the use of the planes, a feature which nearly scuttled a purchase arrangement with Britain.

 

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