Israel is seeking to purchase a squadron of F-35 fighters before Trump's departure
Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz announced his desire for his country to buy a third squadron of US F-35 stealth fighters from the United States.
"Gantz" said he hoped to complete the deal before the outgoing US President Donald Trump leaves the White House, before January 20.
Israeli media quoted "Gantz" as saying: "We undoubtedly need to reinforce our fleet with F-35s, of which we currently have two squadrons ... We will buy a third squadron .. This is what I requested from the Americans."
Israel has been in talks with Washington to discuss how to maintain its military supremacy in the Middle East, after the Trump administration last year approved a possible F-35 deal for the United Arab Emirates.
In the past, possession of this type of aircraft was restricted to Israel in the region.
