The delivery was marked during a ceremony at IAI’s F-35 wing assembly line, attended by senior Israeli government officials, including the Minister of Defense, alongside senior management from Lockheed Martin and IAI. Lockheed Martin’s F-35 is the world’s most advanced stealth fighter and is operated by the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, the Israeli Air Force and multiple air forces worldwide.
Israeli Minister of Defense Israel Katz said: “The delivery of the 350th F-35 fighter jet wing marks a significant milestone,” adding that “the strategic alliance between Israel and the United States is more than a partnership, it is a deep and enduring friendship rooted in shared values.” He added that the bond between the two countries “is stronger than ever and will stand firm against any test ahead,” while thanking IAI employees and Lockheed Martin partners for the achievement.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said: “The delivery of the 350th F-35 wing is a powerful symbol of the ironclad partnership between the United States and Israel.” He added that “this is more than a manufacturing milestone; it’s a testament to our shared commitment to security through technological excellence.”
Nick Drazic, vice president of operations at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, said: “The ongoing success of the F-35 program is enabled by a network of dedicated suppliers like IAI around the world.” He added that “for four decades, IAI has been a collaborative, innovative and reliable partner.”
IAI President and Chief Executive Boaz Levy said the delivery “is a testament to the strength of IAI’s long-standing partnership with Lockheed Martin and the broader defense and aerospace collaboration between Israel and the United States.” Yaacov Berkovitz, vice president and general manager of IAI Aviation, said: “Reaching the 350-wing mark demonstrates the strength of our production capabilities and the dedication of our team.”
