Israel is moving to extend the combat reach of its F-35I “Adir” stealth fighters through a new contract with Elbit Systems’ Cyclone subsidiary, the Israeli Ministry of Defense announced on May 14, 2026, a move that could reduce dependence on vulnerable aerial refueling aircraft during deep-strike operations. The more than $34 million program is strategically significant because it aims to give Israel greater freedom to launch long-range precision missions while preserving the survivability and operational flexibility of its fifth-generation strike fleet. Read Full Defense news At This Link.
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| Israel’s new F-35I Adir external fuel tank program aims to extend stealth strike range, reduce tanker dependence, and improve deep-penetration mission flexibility in contested airspace (Picture Source: Israeli Air Force) |