The deal, worth tens of billions of dollars, was greenlit by Israel's Ministerial Committee on Procurement. It represents the first step in a broader 350-billion-sheqel ($119 billion) initiative to bolster the nation's military and “strengthen readiness ahead of a demanding decade for Israeli security,” the defense ministry said.

The ministry stated that these new squadrons-jets will serve as the cornerstone of long-term force development, designed to neutralize regional threats and maintain Israel’s strategic air superiority.

“Alongside immediate wartime procurement needs, we have a responsibility to act now to secure the IDF’s military edge ten years from now and beyond,” said ministry director general Amir Baram.

Baram noted that the recent war with Iran “reinforced just how critical the U.S.-Israel strategic relationship is, and how essential advanced air power remains.”

Under the approved terms, Israel will acquire a fourth F-35 squadron from Lockheed Martin and a second squadron of F-15IA jets from Boeing. This follow-up comes after Boeing was awarded an $8.6 billion contract in December for 25 F-15IAs, with an option for 25 more, according to Reuters report. 

Baram indicated the next phase involves finalizing agreements with U.S. government and military counterparts.

The procurement follows a period of high regional tension. While a ceasefire has been in place since April 8, the U.S. and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran as recently as February 28. The U.S. Navy continues to maintain a blockade of Iranian ports.

Defense Minister Israel Katz said the conflict with Iran demonstrated the air force's “decisive role” in protecting the country.

“The lessons of that campaign require us to keep pressing forward on force buildup, to ensure air superiority for decades to come,” Katz said.