Israel’s Defense Ministry approved the purchase of a fourth F-35 fighter squadron from Lockheed Martin.

The acquisition forms part of a broader $119 billion (350 billion shekel) military modernization program.

This procurement will double Israel's total F-35 fleet from 50 to 100 aircraft.

The defense plan also includes a new squadron of F-15IA jets from Boeing.

Officials cited recent regional conflicts and an intense security environment as drivers for the decade-long buildup.

The program aims to maintain Israel's military edge and air dominance through 2034.