Israel has awarded a $34-million contract to Elbit Systems subsidiary Cyclone to develop external fuel tanks for the Israeli Air Force’s F-35I “Adir” fighter jets, extending their operational range.
The contract covers the development and integration of fuel tanks derived from the Cyclone’s existing design, created for the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
Equipping the modified variant of Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II with external tanks is expected to reduce dependence on aerial refueling, which can present significant logistical challenges.
The deal forms part of the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s broader force modernization strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s wartime readiness while maintaining its aerial and strategic advantage in the region.
The development comes after Jerusalem decided earlier this month to double both its F-35 fleet from 50 to 100 aircraft and its future F-15IA fleet from 25 to 50.
External Fuel Tanks
The F-35I was reportedly already equipped with external fuel tanks during Operation Rising Lion against Iran in 2025.
Israel launched around 1,500 sorties during the more than 12-day campaign, with missions averaging roughly 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) one way — significantly beyond the fighter’s standard combat radius of approximately 750 miles (1,207 kilometers).
According to reports citing Israeli outlet Maariv, the extended range was achieved through the use of both external and conformal fuel tanks.
The 425-gallon (1,609-liter) external tank developed by Elbit Systems is mounted under the wings and can be jettisoned before entering contested airspace. Meanwhile, the 800-gallon (3,028-liter) conformal fuel tank, developed jointly with Israel Aerospace Industries and Lockheed Martin, is fitted closely along the fuselage to preserve the aircraft’s stealth profile.
