Israel Seeks More Specialized F-35I “Adir” Variants to Counter Iran

By Kris Osborn, President, Center for Military Modernization

The Israeli Defense Forces are seeking to acquire more of its specially engineered F-35I variant, perhaps to ensure continued aerial dominance in the Middle East and prepare itself for any potential contingency with Iran. 

Israeli Defense Forces have an F-35 somewhat different than other F-35s throughout the global alliance due to a wish to integrate special indigenous technologies. 

Israel’s specially configured variant of the F-35, the F-35I Adir incorporates several key indigenously developed modifications including a separate jamming pod, an electronic warfare (EW) system, and uniquely engineered guided bombs and air-to-air weapons.

While Israel already has 35 of its F-35I Adir variants, the country is now pursuing the addition of more new F-35s to expand the scope and reach of its fleet.

An ability to deploy more F-35Is, particularly because they can easily and quickly network with one another across formations in a secure manner, enables Israel to operate F-35Is across much wider and more dispersed operational areas.

Special F-35 Variant

Israel is unique in its membership in the F-35 program in that the Jewish State operates its own variant. The threat-specific components of the F-35I Adir are likely tailored to respond to Iranian threats. There is proprietary technology or innovations specific to Israel that the Israeli Defense Forces protect.

A tailored EW system is integral to Israel’s needs with the F-35, given the nature of the threats the Israeli Air Force might be likely to face. For example, many of Israel’s regional threats such as Iran or militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah would of course not present an air threat to Israel in terms of aircraft.