Israel Awards $34M F-35I Fuel Tank Contract

Israel's Defense Ministry announced on May 15, 2026, a $34 million contract with Cyclone, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems, to develop external fuel tanks for the F-35I Adir stealth fighter jet, enhancing its range for long-distance missions amid ongoing regional security challenges.

The agreement, signed by the ministry's Defense Procurement Directorate, focuses on integrating fuel tank systems based on an existing Cyclone design previously used for F-16 aircraft. Ministry officials stated the upgrade will extend the aircraft's operational reach, reduce dependence on aerial refueling and improve flexibility during extended operations. The F-35I, manufactured by Lockheed Martin with Israeli modifications including electronic warfare, communications and computing systems, currently carries about 18,000 pounds of internal fuel, providing an unrefueled combat radius of roughly 700 miles.

This initiative marks the first such modification for the F-35 platform among more than a dozen operating nations, according to Israeli reports. Officials noted that external tanks could increase the jet's radar cross-section, potentially affecting its stealth profile, though testing will evaluate any...