Taking a closer look at Israel’s weapons wish list Bradley Bowman and Brig. Gen. Jacob Nagel (ret.) February 12 An Israeli F-35 Adir receives fuel from a Tennessee Air National Guard KC-135 as the aircraft makes a flight across the Atlantic Ocean on Dec, 6, 2016. (1st Lt. Erik D. Anthony/U.S. Air Force) Eyeing Iran and its terrorist proxies in Syria and Lebanon, Israel’s Cabinet approved on Feb. 7 an Israeli Air Force request to use U.S. foreign military financing and loans to fund approximately $9 billion worth of U.S. military aircraft and weapons. Jerusalem’s decision initiates a process intended to culminate in the Air Force’s acquisition of new American fighter aircraft, air refuelers and helicopters. These purchases would help address vital Israeli military requirements and support efforts to maintain its qualitative military edge over any potential regional adversary.