TEL AVIV. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a world-class aerospace and defence leader, has delivered the 350th F-35 fighter aircraft wing to Lockheed Martin, marking a significant milestone in the long-standing F-35 programme. The wing was produced and assembled using advanced and innovative technologies at IAI’s facilities.
This milestone was marked during a special ceremony held at IAI’s F-35 wing assembly line, attended by senior Israeli government officials, including Israel’s Minister of Defence, as well as senior management from Lockheed Martin and IAI.
Lockheed Martin’s F-35 is the world’s most advanced stealth fighter aircraft, operated by the US Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, as well as the Israeli Air Force and numerous militaries worldwide. It is operationally active with the Israeli Air Force, where it plays a significant role in missions across multiple arenas, contributing directly to Israel’s aerial security and national defence.
Israeli Minister of Defence, Israel Katz, said, “The delivery of the 350th F-35 fighter jet wing marks a significant milestone. 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. Together, we are stronger, as demonstrated time and again in recent months, most notably during the historic Operation Rising Lion and Operation Midnight Hammer, which dealt a devastating blow to Iran’s nuclear programme. This strength will guide us in facing any future challenge. Thanks to US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the bond between our nations is stronger than ever and will stand firm against any test ahead. I extend my sincere appreciation to the employees of IAI and our partners at Lockheed Martin for making this achievement possible.”
US Ambassador in Israel, Mike Huckabee, stated, “The delivery of the 350th F-35 wing is a powerful symbol of the ironclad partnership between the United States and Israel. This is more than a manufacturing milestone; it’s a testament to our shared commitment to security through technological excellence. When Israeli innovation and American industry collaborate, the result is unmatched capability that strengthens both our nations. We are proud to stand with IAI and Lockheed Martin in celebrating this remarkable achievement.”
Vice President of Operations, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Nick Drazic, commented, “The ongoing success of the F-35 programme is enabled by a network of dedicated suppliers like IAI around the world. For four decades, IAI has been a collaborative, innovative and reliable partner, ensuring Lockheed Martin’s fighter aircraft deliver the capability our customers need to maintain peace through strength.”
President and CEO of IAI, Boaz Levy, said, “The delivery of the 350th F-35 wing is a testament to the strength of IAI’s long-standing partnership with Lockheed Martin and the broader defence and aerospace collaboration between Israel and the United States. This milestone reflects decades of close cooperation with American industry, built on shared values, advanced technological capabilities and a mutual commitment to supporting critical defense programmes.”
VP and GM of IAI Aviation, Yaacov Berkovitz, remarked, “This milestone reflects the day-to-day cooperation between IAI Aviation and Lockheed Martin across the F-35 wing assembly line. Since 2014, our teams have consistently delivered high-quality wings through advanced manufacturing methods and disciplined assembly processes. Reaching the 350-wing mark demonstrates the strength of our production capabilities and the dedication of our team”.
IAI has been producing the F-35 wings since 2014, playing an instrumental role in the F-35 programme. The strategic collaboration between IAI and Lockheed Martin dates back to the late 1980s, reflecting decades of trusted partnership, technological cooperation and a shared commitment to mission success.
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