Israel Wants To Buy F-35 Stealth Fighters From The US And That Must Be Done Before Trump Steps Down

PF-35 maneuvering at Hatzerim air base in Israel Amir Cohen / REUTERS)

JAKARTA - Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz expressed his interest in purchasing a third squadron of the F-35 stealth fighter from the United States (US). He hopes an agreement can be reached before President Donald Trump's term ends January 20.

"Without a doubt, we need to expand the F-35 lineup. We currently have two squadrons. I think we will add to that. That's what I ask of America," Defense Minister Benny Gantz told Ynet TV, Monday, January 4.

Israel has been in talks with Washington on how to maintain its military advantage after the Trump administration approved a possible sale of the F-35 to the United Arab Emirates last year. The aircraft was previously only available to Israel in the region.

"I will buy another F-35 squadron and then check what to do afterward - continue to expand (procure) the F-35, for the F-15 ?," Gantz continued.

Gantz did not specify the number of F-35s in the proposed new squadron. Defense officials said the two squadrons Israel had ordered consisted of 50 aircraft.

Gantz's coalition government with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fell apart last month, triggering a vote on March 23. The two men remained at their posts until a new government was formed following the vote.

Gantz hopes Israel can finalize a defense procurement deal with the United States before Trump's term ends. The F-35 is built by Lockheed Martin Corp and the F-15 by Boeing Co.

"I hope so. I think the defense budget needs to be handled properly, to be secured. This is a kind of active insurance policy," he said.