Israel and the United States have secretly modified the Israeli Air Force's F-35 stealth fighter jets, enabling them to carry out a large-scale attack on Iran while circumventing the obstacles of aerial refueling.
A report published by the Hebrew newspaper Maariv indicates that the modification enables the aircraft to carry additional fuel without being detected by radar or infrared sensors.
One source explained that "Israel did not refuel the aircraft in the air or land for refueling in any country - the aircraft took off and returned independently." Another source confirmed that all modifications were made in coordination with the United States, which was an active partner in the new development.
In American and international security circles, this move is viewed as a qualitative leap in the operational capabilities of the F-35, the world's only long-range, stealth-capable fighter jet.
Experts point out that adding external fuel tanks poses a significant engineering challenge, as it could expose the aircraft to detection. "This is a skillfully executed surgical operation on the fuselage," said Richard Obolavia, an aviation industry consultant.
According to the report, US bases in the Gulf or on Azerbaijani territory were not used. The Azerbaijani Foreign Minister also officially confirmed that his country would not allow its territory to be used for any attacks against Iran.
The report focuses on the assessment that the success of the attack—both in terms of surprise and power—will generate significant interest among Arab states seeking to purchase the F-35, as well as among the United States' competitors. One source said, "The aircraft's performance will now be re-evaluated worldwide."
