Defense Minister Benny Gantz said Monday that he wants the country to buy the third squadron of F-35 stealth warplanes from the United States, and that he hoped a deal could be reached before the President Donald Trump stopped Jan. 20.
Israel has been in talks with Washington about how it can secure its military gain after the Trump administration approved a possible F-35 sale to the United Arab Emirates last year . Previously the plane was only available to Israel in the area.
Minister of defense benny gantz
(Photo: yoavian bird)
“Obviously, we need to expand the F-35 range. Right now we have two squadrons. I think we will expand that. That is what I called on the Americans,” the Defense Minister said. Benny Gantz ri Ynet TV.
Defense officials have said the two squadrons ordered by Israel already contain 50 planes. “I would buy another F-35 squadron and then explore what to do with the balance – continuing to expand the F-35 (supply), going for F-15s ? “
When asked if Israel would make a defense offer deal with the United States before Trump stops it, he said: “I hope so. I think the defense budget needs to be handled properly, to protect it. It is a kind of active insurance policy. ” “
Fets of J-35s in IAF
(Photo: Haim Horenstein)
He said he would vote against closing the education system when the cabinet meets later in the day to discuss tightening the coronavirus lockout.
“This is the most important thing in my eyes, and we will do everything we can to keep the education system open,” he said. the education system … why should the education system pay the price? “