Israel announces plan to develop indigenous stealth fighter and pilotless warplane

Israel said it will design and produce its own stealth fighter and unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) within the next ten years, aiming to cut reliance on U.S. military aid and equipment. A senior official warned that future U.S. policy could limit access to systems such as the F‑35, making domestic production essential. The proposed aircraft would feature advanced artificial‑intelligence driven autonomy and be capable of complex missions, mirroring the capabilities of the U.S.‑supplied F‑35.

The initiative follows Israel’s historic attempts at local fighter development, including the abandoned Lavi project, and reflects a broader shift toward defense self‑reliance amid decreasing U.S. aid. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backs the effort, and officials indicated that foreign partners could take part in the programme. The move underscores Israel’s strategy to secure critical defence technologies independent of external political pressures.