Israel is the first country to use the F-35 in combat, and its customized variant — the F-35I Adir ("Mighty One") — has become the backbone of Israel's strategic strike capability. With unique Israeli-developed systems integrated into the American airframe, the Adir represents the cutting edge of combat aviation.
Israeli Modifications
While most F-35 operators fly the aircraft largely as delivered by Lockheed Martin, Israel negotiated unprecedented access to the F-35's software and systems architecture, allowing integration of:
- Israeli electronic warfare suite: Additional EW capabilities beyond the standard F-35 systems
- Israeli weapons: Integration of locally produced munitions including Python-5 and I-Derby air-to-air missiles
- C4I integration: Connectivity with Israel's unique command and control networks
- Custom mission computers: Israeli-developed computers running locally programmed mission software
These modifications make the F-35I functionally a different aircraft from the standard F-35A, optimized specifically for Israel's threat environment and operational doctrine.
Combat Record
Israel first used the F-35I in combat in 2018, striking targets in Syria. Since then, the Adir has been used extensively:
- Syria operations: Regular strikes against Iranian weapons transfers and Hezbollah infrastructure, often penetrating Syrian/Russian air defense zones
- Lebanon operations: Precision strikes during the 2024 escalation, including targeting Hezbollah command centers in Beirut
- Iran strikes: F-35I reportedly participated in strikes against Iranian targets during Operation Epic Fury, exploiting stealth to penetrate Iran's S-300 and Bavar-373 air defense network
Stealth in Practice
The F-35's radar cross-section — comparable to a golf ball — allows it to penetrate air defense networks that would detect and engage 4th-generation fighters at long range. In practice, this means F-35I pilots can:
- Approach targets without triggering early warning radars until very close range
- Designate targets for standoff weapons launched by non-stealth aircraft at safe distance
- Conduct battle damage assessment over defended areas
- Suppress air defenses by identifying and targeting radar sites undetected
Sensor Fusion
The F-35's most revolutionary capability isn't stealth — it's sensor fusion. The aircraft combines data from its radar, infrared sensors, electronic warfare systems, and data links into a single unified picture. The pilot sees one integrated display rather than having to mentally combine information from multiple sensors.
This makes the F-35I a flying command center. During multi-aircraft strikes, the F-35I often serves as the "quarterback" — its sensors detect threats and targets that other aircraft cannot see, and it shares this information in real-time across the formation.
Fleet Size and Future
Israel has ordered 75 F-35I aircraft, with deliveries ongoing. At roughly $100 million per aircraft, this represents a $7.5 billion investment — Israel's largest single weapons procurement. The fleet is expected to eventually replace F-15I Ra'am aircraft in the strategic strike role while maintaining air superiority capability.
Israel has also expressed interest in the F-35B (short takeoff/vertical landing variant) for dispersed operations, though no order has been placed. The ability to operate from damaged runways or improvised strips would significantly improve survivability against missile attacks on air bases.