Israel Seeks Advanced US Arms Amid Saudi F-35 Deal Talks

Israel is demanding access to advanced U.S. weaponry and classified military developments that Washington has previously withheld, according to Israeli security officials cited by Walla. This demand is framed as a response to the planned sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a deal valued at approximately $24.3 billion. The U.S. State Department has approved the potential sale, though it still requires Congressional review.

The potential sale is particularly sensitive for Israel, as it is currently the sole operator of the F-35 in the Middle East. U.S. law mandates maintaining Israel's qualitative military edge when considering major arms sales to regional partners. While the Israeli military (IDF) would prefer other Middle Eastern nations not acquire these advanced aircraft, some within the defense establishment believe the presence of F-35s in Saudi Arabia would not negate Israel's existing air superiority, especially given the projected delivery timeline of about five years.

Israel plans to use this period to further develop its own F-35I "Adir" fleet, which includes unique Israeli-developed systems and a dedicated test aircraft for new capabilities. The country also points to its pilots' and technical staff's accumulated combat experience. However, the Saudi deal is prompting Israel to reassess its future negotiations with Washington.

Israel intends to seek access to systems previously denied, as well as participation in the development and production of classified U.S. armaments. Beyond fighter jets, Israel is interested in space-based weapons, enhanced U.S. involvement in the Arrow 4 and Arrow 5 missile defense programs, heavy munitions for deeply buried targets, autonomous strike systems, and drone swarm technologies. This strategy aims to secure next-generation technological advantages rather than just compensating for potential aircraft numbers.

Despite these ambitions, Israel faces financial constraints that may impact its ability to fund new F-15 and F-35 squadrons, as well as other procurement programs.