F-35I Adir
The F-35I Adir (Hebrew: "Mighty One") is Israel's customized version of the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II. Developed through a unique agreement between Israel and the United States, the Adir incorporates Israeli-developed electronic warfare systems, communication systems, and other indigenous avionics while retaining the core F-35A stealth airframe. The Israel Air Force (IAF) began receiving F-35Is in 2016 and the aircraft became operational in 2017. Israel is the only nation permitted by the US to integrate its own systems into the F-35 platform. The Adir has reportedly seen combat use, making the IAF the first air force to employ the F-35 in combat operations. Israel has procured 50 aircraft with plans for additional orders.
- Only F-35 variant with indigenous Israeli electronic warfare systems
- Advanced AN/APG-81 AESA radar with long-range detection capability
- All-aspect stealth design with very low radar cross-section
- Sensor fusion integrating data from multiple onboard systems
- Compatible with Israeli-developed weapons including Python-5 and Derby AAMs
- Combat-proven — first F-35 variant used in real operational combat
- Israeli EW suite provides enhanced survivability in contested Middle East airspace
- Higher acquisition cost than standard F-35A due to Israeli modifications
- Integration of Israeli systems required lengthy US approval process
- Maintenance complexity increased by dual-origin (US + Israeli) systems
- Limited internal weapons bay payload in full stealth configuration
- Dependent on US for core platform sustainment and software upgrades
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