Israel uses F-35 jets in major strikes against Iranian military bases

Israel used its F-35 fighter jets in significant strikes against Iranian military bases on October 26, marking a notable escalation in the ongoing conflict. This operation reportedly destroyed much of Iran's air defense and missile production capabilities. UK's Chief of Defence Staff, Adm. Tony Radakin, confirmed that Israel deployed over 100 aircraft, achieving substantial damage without approaching within 100 miles of the targets. This is the first acknowledgment from a Western official regarding Israel's use of F-35s in this context. The F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, is Israel's only fifth-generation aircraft. Israel plans to increase its fleet from 40 to 75 F-35Is, enhancing its military capabilities amid regional tensions.