The Israel Air Force (IAF) announced in September 2015 that Israel's first squadron of F-35 “future fighter” fighter jets was to be established. Fourteen of the F-35's were purchased by the IAF from Lockheed Martin, to be kept at an IAF base in Southern Israel. The first of the jets is expected to be delivered in December 2016.
Once delivered, the aircraft will undergo a significant upgrade process to extend the range of the jet by approximately 30%, according to IAF officials. These upgrades will primarily be made so the aircraft can successfully engage in combat with Iran if needed.