Overview
- Israel’s Defense Ministry signed the contract Thursday with Cyclone, an Elbit Systems unit, to develop and integrate external fuel tanks for the F-35I Adir.
- The tanks draw on a Cyclone design first built for the F-16, and officials have not said whether the F-35I version will be underwing drop tanks or conformal tanks.
- Officials say the added fuel will extend range and give planners more options on deep strikes, a priority after recent Iran operations that required extensive tanker support.
- External tanks increase radar visibility and can reduce stealth, and the program will include testing to gauge how the add-ons affect the jet’s low-observable profile.
- The deal is one step in a wider buildup that includes larger F-35 and F-15IA fleets and greater use of Israeli industry, which could ease strain on limited tanker crews over time.