Israel Matzav: Israel may get its technology into F-35 after all

Israel may get its technology into F-35 after all

Remember the whole argument several months ago about putting Israeli technology into the F-35 strike fighters being purchased by Israel? It seems that the manufacturer, Lockheed Martin, is having difficulties selling the plane, and in a bid to get Israel to place a final order, which may inspire other countries to do the same, the manufacturer and the US government are going to give some ground on letting Israel install its own technology.

The United States is expected to ease its opposition to incorporating Israeli systems in the F-35 if Israel expedites its order for the stealth strike fighter. Sources in the defense establishment confirmed Tuesday a Reuters report that the U.S. has offered a version of the F-35 that would include command and control systems developed in Israel, as well as the ability to carry advanced missiles that are made in Israel.

Reuters says that the Pentagon is still opposed to the introduction of an Israeli electronic warfare suite for the version of the fighter that would be procured by the IAF, and this remains a key Israeli condition.

An order from Israel has been delayed for months because of discussions on the issue of Israeli systems, and the aircraft's high cost.

The IAF would like to place an order for the first 25 F-35s, out of an overall order of 75.

If this actually happens it will be good news. But given all of the fights and delays over the F-35, I'll believe it when I see it.

Israel Matzav: Israel may get its technology into F-35 after all