Two F-35i stealth fighters are flying in the sky. (Photo provided by Israel Defense Forces)
Israel's second squadron of F-35i stealth fighters, named "Lions of the South," was inaugurated on Thursday to bolster Israel's "qualitative advantage" over enemies.
JERUSALEM, Jan. 16 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military inaugurated the second squadron of F-35i stealth fighter jets on Thursday.
The squadron, named "Lions of the South," was officially launched in a ceremony at the Nevatim air base in southern Israel.
The "Lions of the South" has joined the "Golden Eagle," Israel's first squadron of F-35i fighter jets, which was established in 2016 and became operational in December 2017.
Two F-35i stealth fighters are conducting a drill in the sky. (Photo provided by Israel Defense Forces)
"The Air Force carries a great deal of responsibility every day," Israeli Air Force Commander Amikam Norkin said at the ceremony, according to a statement issued by the military.
The second squadron is "becoming part of the strategic arm, part of our qualitative advantage over our enemies," Norkin said.
The F-35i, or "Adir" which means "mighty" in Hebrew, is manufactured by the U.S.-headquartered Lockheed Martin Corporation.
A pilot of the squadron of F-35i fighters is handing the flag over to another pilot. (Photo provided by Israel Defense Forces)
The military considers the capabilities of "Adir" as part of the multi-layer operational and strategic doctrine of the Israeli Air Force. It "ensures its superiority in all missions, most importantly the defense of Israeli airspace and its security," the statement said.
Over the past year, the "Adir" jets participated in several international exercises in cooperation with foreign armies and air forces.
Israel has agreed to purchase 50 F-35i jets, of which 20 have already been delivered to Israel. ■
