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Israel to receive first batch of F-35 jets in two weeks

November 30, 2016 at 10:40 am

Israel is scheduled to receive the first batch of US-made F-35 fighter jets in two weeks, a senior official in the Israeli air force revealed.

According to Anadolu, the official told Israeli radio that these are “the strongest and fastest fighters and they are considered a considerable leap for us as they will increase our defence ability against ballistic missiles.”

He added: “The fighter jet and their accessories will be ready in six months, including training to carry out combat missions.”

Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that the Israeli security cabinet decided unanimously on Sunday to purchase 17 additional F-35 fighter jets, noting the new purchase brings the number of F-35s in Israel’s air arsenal to 50.

Reporting a statement issued by the Israeli prime minister’s office, the newspaper said that the F-35 was nicknamed the Adir; mighty or glorious in Hebrew.