Israeli Air Force

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) is a highly advanced and combat-proven force, structured to execute a wide spectrum of operations and uphold Israel's qualitative military edge. It operates as a key branch of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and is organized for aerial and space warfare, with its headquarters in Tel Aviv. The IAF's functions are multi-faceted, including the protection of Israeli airspace, achieving air supremacy, supporting ground and naval forces, conducting deep-strike missions, and providing intelligence. Operationally, the IAF has demonstrated a high level of capability, including the ability to generate a high daily sortie rate. This is facilitated by an advanced command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) system. The force collaborates closely with other IDF branches like the ground forces, navy, and military intelligence.

The strategic doctrine of the IAF is deeply rooted in Israel's geopolitical context, emphasizing offensive operations and preemption to counter the nation's lack of strategic depth. Historically, the doctrine prioritized achieving air superiority early in any conflict to neutralize enemy air threats and enable freedom of action for ground forces. This was evident in conflicts such as the 1967 Six-Day War with Operation Focus, which destroyed the air forces of several Arab nations. Over time, the doctrine has evolved from a purely defensive and reactive posture to one capable of executing strategic military objectives far from its borders. This shift underscores a reliance on technologically advanced air power to answer national strategy challenges.

In recent years, the IAF has been involved in numerous combat engagements. It has conducted extensive operations against targets in the Gaza Strip and has been active in Syria to prevent the transfer of advanced weaponry to Hezbollah. More recently, the IAF has been engaged in operations against Iranian targets, including what has been described as the "most challenging kinetic operations" the F-35 has ever flown. These missions have targeted Iranian nuclear facilities and military capabilities, demonstrating the IAF's long-range strike and operational flexibility. During Operation Days of Repentance in October 2024 and Operation Rising Lion starting in June 2025, the IAF utilized its F-35I "Adir" stealth fighters alongside other advanced aircraft to penetrate contested airspace.

Modernization is a constant for the IAF, focusing on maintaining its technological superiority. A key element of this is the acquisition and integration of the F-35I "Adir," a customized version of the F-35 with unique Israeli-developed electronic warfare and weapons systems. Israel plans to expand its F-35 fleet to 75 aircraft. In addition to the F-35, the IAF is modernizing its F-15 fleet with the purchase of 25 new F-15IA jets, with an option for 25 more, to replace aging aircraft and enhance its long-range strike capabilities. Israel is also a world leader in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, continuously developing and integrating new drones for a variety of missions, from reconnaissance to attack.