Elbit Systems’ Cyclone subsidiary has secured a $34-million deal from Israel to develop external fuel tanks for the F-35I Adir stealth fighter, supporting efforts to increase the aircraft’s strike range and operational flexibility. The tanks are based on a design previously produced for the F-16 and are intended to lessen reliance on tanker aircraft during extended combat operations. The initiative forms part of Israel’s broader force expansion strategy following recent decisions to double both its F-35 and future F-15IA fleets. According to reports, Israeli F-35Is already employed external and conformal fuel tanks during long-range missions conducted in Operation Rising Lion in 2025, where sortie distances exceeded the fighter’s normal combat radius. The 425-gallon external tanks are mounted beneath the wings and can be discarded prior to entering hostile airspace, while the larger conformal tanks fitted close to the fuselage help maintain stealth performance. The program is expected to strengthen Israel’s ability to conduct long-distance air operations independently across the region.
