Fact Check: In 2021, Israel's Walla news reported that the Israeli Air Force was working on a drop tank for the F-35I Adir, with the modification expected to be completed in two years.

Fact Check: "In 2021, Israel's Walla news reported that the Israeli Air Force was working on a drop tank for the F-35I Adir, with the modification expected to be completed in two years."

What We Know

In 2021, reports emerged indicating that the Israeli Air Force (IAF) was indeed working on a modification for the F-35I Adir, specifically the development of external drop tanks. This modification was aimed at enhancing the aircraft's operational range, allowing it to conduct long-range missions without the need for midair refueling. According to Walla news, the modification was expected to be completed within two years. This information has been corroborated by multiple sources, including Middle East Eye and The Aviationist, which also highlighted the strategic importance of this development in the context of Israel's military capabilities.

Analysis

The claim that the IAF was working on drop tanks for the F-35I Adir is supported by credible sources. Walla news, which initially reported the development, is a well-known Israeli news outlet, although it is important to note that media outlets can sometimes have biases based on their editorial stance. The reports were further validated by other reputable sources like Middle East Eye and The Aviationist, which provide additional context about the military implications of such modifications.

However, while the reports indicate that the modification was expected to be completed in two years, there is no follow-up information available as of October 2023 to confirm whether this timeline has been met or if the project is still ongoing. This lack of updated information raises questions about the current status of the modification and whether it has been successfully implemented.

Conclusion

Needs Research: While the initial claim about the IAF working on drop tanks for the F-35I Adir is substantiated by credible sources, the lack of follow-up information regarding the completion of this modification leaves the claim somewhat unresolved. Further investigation is needed to ascertain the current status of the project and whether the expected timeline was adhered to.

Sources

1. Israel - The World Factbook
2. Israel – Wikipedia
3. Israel country profile - BBC News
4. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Israeli procurement
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