Classified US intelligence reports prepared by the Pentagon’s Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) have raised alarm over a proposed $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighters to Saudi Arabia. Analysts warn that China could gain access to sensitive radar, avionics, and stealth technology through espionage or Riyadh’s expanding military and telecommunications partnerships with Beijing. With Chinese hardware integrated into Saudi bases and telecom infrastructure, lawmakers are questioning whether Riyadh can safely protect top-tier American military hardware.   


US intel warns China can steal F-35 jets secret from Saudis

The F-35 fighter prevents its advanced avionics from overheating by using aviation fuel as a liquid heat sink, avoiding external air vents that would compromise its stealth profile.

The F-35 fighter prevents its advanced avionics from overheating by using aviation fuel as a liquid heat sink, avoiding external air vents that would compromise its stealth profile.

Why the F-35 uses its jet fuel to cool hot electronics

The F-35 stealth fighter opens its internal weapons bays for under two seconds during combat. Rapid pneumatic ejectors and fast-acting doors prevent enemy radar from detecting the aircraft.

The F-35 stealth fighter opens its internal weapons bays for under two seconds during combat. Rapid pneumatic ejectors and fast-acting doors prevent enemy radar from detecting the aircraft.

Why the F-35 internal weapons bays open so quickly

The F-35 relies on one pilot by using advanced sensor fusion, six infrared cameras, and a high-tech helmet to automate data. This setup replaces the need for a co-pilot while maintaining stealth.

The F-35 relies on one pilot by using advanced sensor fusion, six infrared cameras, and a high-tech helmet to automate data. This setup replaces the need for a co-pilot while maintaining stealth.

Why the F-35 relies on one pilot for complex missions

F-35 pilots wear a $400,000 helmet linked to 6 infrared cameras. This system projects a 360-degree live feed onto their visor, allowing them to see straight through the jet floor.

F-35 pilots wear a $400,000 helmet linked to 6 infrared cameras. This system projects a 360-degree live feed onto their visor, allowing them to see straight through the jet floor.

How the F-35 pilot sees straight through the floor

The F-35 uses passive infrared cameras and sensor fusion to track enemies without emitting radar waves. This allows the $82 million stealth fighter to share intelligence and strike undetected.

The F-35 uses passive infrared cameras and sensor fusion to track enemies without emitting radar waves. This allows the $82 million stealth fighter to share intelligence and strike undetected.

Why the F-35 can fly dangerous combat missions without turning on its radar

The F-35 uses a single F135 engine generating 43,000 lbs of thrust. This design saves weight, lowers maintenance costs, and frees up internal space for 18,000 lbs of fuel and stealth weapon bays.

The F-35 uses a single F135 engine generating 43,000 lbs of thrust. This design saves weight, lowers maintenance costs, and frees up internal space for 18,000 lbs of fuel and stealth weapon bays.

Why the massive F-35 relies on only one engine instead of two

While the S-400 air defence system has a 400 km range, it can only secure a weapons lock on the stealthy F-35 from 20 to 30 miles away. This allows the aircraft to launch anti-radiation missiles from 60 miles out, neutralising the radar first.


While the S-400 air defence system has a 400 km range, it can only secure a weapons lock on the stealthy F-35 from 20 to 30 miles away. This allows the aircraft to launch anti-radiation missiles from 60 miles out, neutralising the radar first.

'Fifth-generation fighters': Can the S-400 shoot down an F-35?

The F-35 Lightning II is regarded as one of the world's most advanced stealth fighter jets, combining stealth technology, supersonic speed, sensor fusion, and multirole combat capabilities. From the cockpit to the cutting-edge systems that define modern aerial warfare, here's a closer look at the fighter aircraft reshaping battlefields around the world.


F-35: The jet designed to strike without warning

The F-35 Lightning II has emerged as a crucial surveillance asset during the Iran conflict, using its stealth and advanced sensor fusion to track targets inside contested airspace; it provides an unmatched eye in the sky for commanders.

The F-35 Lightning II has emerged as a crucial surveillance asset during the Iran conflict, using its stealth and advanced sensor fusion to track targets inside contested airspace; it provides an unmatched eye in the sky for commanders.

‘Eye in the Sky’: Which US fighter jet is most commonly used for surveillance during the Iran war?

#Gravitas The divide among America’s closest allies over one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, the F-35, is only widening further. While Israel is expanding its F-35 fleet, planning to double it from 50 to 100 aircraft, Canada continues to evaluate its jet deal with the U.S. 


F-35 Divide Deepens: Israel Expands Fleet As Canada Eyes Swedish Alternative 

Israel has approved a multi-billion-dollar deal to acquire two combat squadrons of fighter jets from the United States, the Defence Ministry announced on Sunday (May 3). The deal comes amid tensions in the Middle East and conflict with Iran. The purchase includes a squadron of F-35 multi-role stealth fighters from Lockheed Martin and another of F-15IA warplanes from Boeing.In a statement, the ministry said that the deals are valued at tens of billions of shekels and are part of a dedicated 350 billion shekel ($119 billion) budget. It added that the jets “will serve as a cornerstone of the IDF’s long-term force development, addressing evolving regional threats and preserving Israel’s strategic air superiority.”<h2>What’s in the US-Israel deal?</h2>The purchase of new aircraft would bring the Israeli Air Force’s F-35I fleet to 100 and the F-15IA, the Israeli variant of the advanced F-15EX, fleet to 50.As of now, Israel has 48 F-35I jets, following an initial order of 50 aircraft. In 2023, another 25 F-35s were ordered, which are expected to be delivered starting in 2028. In 2024, Israel ordered another 25 F-15IA jets, with deliveries expected starting in 2031.In a statement, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said that the recent war in Iran “once again demonstrated the Israeli Air Force’s power and its decisive role in protecting Israel.”“The lessons of that campaign require us to keep pressing forward on force buildup, to ensure air superiority for decades to come,” he added.Defense Ministry director general Amir Baram said that “alongside immediate wartime procurement needs, we have a responsibility to act now to secure the IDF’s military edge ten years from now and beyond.”“Operation Roaring Lion reinforced just how critical the US-Israel strategic relationship is, and how essential advanced air power remains,” he said, referring to the recent military campaign in Iran.

Israel approved a multi-billion-dollar deal with the United States to acquire F-35 and F-15IA jets, aiming to strengthen air superiority amid ongoing tensions in the region.

Israel has approved a multi-billion-dollar deal to acquire two combat squadrons of fighter jets from the United States, the Defence Ministry announced on Sunday (May 3). The deal comes amid tensions in the Middle East and conflict with Iran. The purchase includes a squadron of F-35 multi-role stealth fighters from Lockheed Martin and another of F-15IA warplanes from Boeing. In a statement, the ministry said that the deals are valued at tens of billions of shekels and are part of a dedicated 350 billion shekel ($119 billion) budget. It added that the jets “will serve as a cornerstone of the IDF’s long-term force development, addressing evolving regional threats and preserving Israel’s strategic air superiority.” What’s in the US-Israel deal? The purchase of new aircraft would bring the Israeli Air Force’s F-35I fleet to 100 and the F-15IA, the Israeli variant of the advanced F-15EX, fleet to 50. As of now, Israel has 48 F-35I jets, following an initial order of 50 aircraft. In 2023, another 25 F-35s were ordered, which are expected to be delivered starting in 2028. In 2024, Israel ordered another 25 F-15IA jets, with deliveries expected starting in 2031. In a statement, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said that the recent war in Iran “once again demonstrated the Israeli Air Force’s power and its decisive role in protecting Israel.” “The lessons of that campaign require us to keep pressing forward on force buildup, to ensure air superiority for decades to come,” he added. Defense Ministry director general Amir Baram said that “alongside immediate wartime procurement needs, we have a responsibility to act now to secure the IDF’s military edge ten years from now and beyond.” “Operation Roaring Lion reinforced just how critical the US-Israel strategic relationship is, and how essential advanced air power remains,” he said, referring to the recent military campaign in Iran.

Israel approved a multi-billion-dollar deal with the United States to acquire F-35 and F-15IA jets, aiming to strengthen air superiority amid ongoing tensions in the region. Know what’s in the deal.

Israel approves purchase of F-35, F-15IA fighter jets from US – What’s in the deal?

Is Canada stepping back from a major defence deal with the United States?

Ottawa is reassessing its planned purchase of the advanced F-35 Lightning II, signalling growing hesitation over cost, strategy, and long-term military priorities.

What began as a flagship defence acquisition is now under deeper review, raising questions about Canada’s future airpower strategy and its defence ties with Washington.

Is this a delay—or the beginning of a larger rethink?


Canada To Back Out Of F-35 Deal With US?

F-35 has appeared at Indian air shows (like Aero India 2025) as a display of US military technology, but there is no active deal to acquire the stealth fighter jets. There are several reasons why India has stayed away from them, including its “Black Box” Technology.

F-35 has appeared at Indian air shows (like Aero India 2025) as a display of US military technology, but there is no active deal to acquire the stealth fighter jets. There are several reasons why India has stayed away from them, including its “Black Box” Technology.

Why India isn't ready to unlock F-35 'Black Box' as Lockheed Martin confirms no talks currently exist

During Operation Roar of Lions, Israel executed 8,500 sorties and 10,800 strikes against Iran. Utilising F-35I stealth fighters and heavily armed F-15I jets, the Israeli Air Force dropped over 18,000 munitions to destroy 4,000 strategic targets.


During Operation Roar of Lions, Israel executed 8,500 sorties and 10,800 strikes against Iran. Utilising F-35I stealth fighters and heavily armed F-15I jets, the Israeli Air Force dropped over 18,000 munitions to destroy 4,000 strategic targets.

‘10,800+ strikes’: Which fighter jets did Israel use most against Iran in the war?

The United States has issued a stark warning to Canada that it may increase air operations in Canadian airspace amid rising tension over Canada’s review of its multibillion‑dollar F‑35 fighter jet deal. U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra said that if Ottawa scales back its purchase of F‑35 aircraft, the U.S. may fill capability gaps by expanding its own fighter patrols under the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).


US Could Expand Air Patrols Over Canada 

The United States has issued a stark warning to Canada that it may increase air operations in Canadian airspace amid rising tension over Canada’s review of its multibillion‑dollar F‑35 fighter jet deal. U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra said that if Ottawa scales back its purchase of F‑35 aircraft, the U.S. may fill capability gaps by expanding its own fighter patrols under the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).

Washington Warns It May Increase Air Operations Over Canada

The US has deployed F-35s, bombers, and tankers to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar amid rising Iran tensions. As CENTCOM's forward HQ, the base is critical for projecting American air power. This move strengthens deterrence and extends the reach of US forces across the Middle East.

The US has deployed F-35s, bombers, and tankers to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar amid rising Iran tensions. As CENTCOM's forward HQ, the base is critical for projecting American air power. This move strengthens deterrence and extends the reach of US forces across the Middle East.

Why Al Udeid Air Base matters now: US deploys F-35s, bombers and tankers amid rising Iran tensions

Turkish President Erdogan Wants Reentry in US Led F-35 Programme

The F-35 uses infrared sensors, 360° cameras, and advanced radar to see through clouds, fog, and darkness. Sensor fusion gives pilots a complete view of threats in any weather, day or night. 

The F-35 uses infrared sensors, 360° cameras, and advanced radar to see through clouds, fog, and darkness. Sensor fusion gives pilots a complete view of threats in any weather, day or night.&nbsp;

How the F-35 fighter jet sees through clouds, fog and darkness

F-35 maintenance costs $42,000 per flight hour. Engine problems and upgrades keep adding billions. The F-35 Lightning II is the most advanced stealth fighter in the world, From operating expenses to long-term sustainment, the true price of keeping these jets flying is staggering.

F-35 maintenance costs $42,000 per flight hour. Engine problems and upgrades keep adding billions. The F-35 Lightning II is the most advanced stealth fighter in the world, From operating expenses to long-term sustainment, the true price of keeping these jets flying is staggering.

F-35 fighter jet maintenance secrets: How much does it really cost?

The jet’s advanced systems offer cutting-edge capability, but when they fail, whether in freezing conditions, during carrier operations or complex refuelling, the consequences are stark.

The jet’s advanced systems offer cutting-edge capability, but when they fail, whether in freezing conditions, during carrier operations or complex refuelling, the consequences are stark.

F‑35 fighter jet failures: 6 crashes that revealed flaws of one of the world’s costliest aircraft

America’s F-35 and Russia’s SU-35 are two of the world’s most advanced fighters — but how do they compare in real combat scenarios? From stealth and sensors to dogfighting ability and weapons, this breakdown examines the strengths, weaknesses, and battlefield roles of both aircraft to determine which jet truly dominates the skies.

F-35 vs SU-35: The Ultimate Battle for Air Superiority 

The US has confirmed that it has successfully carried out the testing of a B61-12 tactical thermonuclear bomb. This is the first non-nuclear flight test of the B61-12 variant on an F-35 aircraft. The test was carried out from August 19 to 21 in the test site in Nevada and confirmed by the US Department of Energy's Sandia National Laboratories on November 13.&nbsp; The report confirmed that the tests yielded successful results. Inert units of the B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb were successfully carried and dropped by an F-35 aircraft. The tests solidify the end-to-end reliability of the aircraft, crew and weapon system. The life-extension programme (LEP) for the B61-12 was completed in 2024; these tests extend the service by at least 20 years.“These B61-12 F-35A stockpile flight tests and captive carry flight test were the capstone accomplishment of a tremendous amount of planning and effort by those who were involved across not only Sandia, but many other agencies,” said Sandia’s Jeffrey Boyd, surveillance lead for the B61-12 and B61-13.<h2>What is the B61-12 gravity bomb?</h2>B61‑12 is a modernised version of the B61 family, an unguided, free-fall weapon that relies on gravity. The test was a test of the ability to integrate with F-35A fighter jets. The thermal pre‑conditioning of the test signifies that it can survive carriage under any realistic conditions. However, this is not a nuclear test but a test of the delivery system, integrated with the F-35A for reliability. While this marks a significant milestone for F-35A, it was certified for nuclear strike in 2023, implying that the process was going on for a couple of years. In contrast to the US Air Force’s F-22 Raptor, which primarily focuses on air-to-air combat, the F-35A was designed from the outset to incorporate tactical nuclear strike capabilities.&nbsp;“The F-35A is the first 5th generation nuclear-capable aircraft ever, and the first new platform (fighter or bomber) to achieve this status since the early 1990s,” said Russ Goemaere, a spokesperson of the F-35 Joint Program Office.In October, US President Donald Trump suggested that Russia, China, and even Pakistan are carrying out nuclear tests underground, and the US will start its own tests. The US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, while talking to Fox News, downplayed Trump's statements, saying that these are most likely "system tests", not “nuclear explosions”.&nbsp;

The US has successfully conducted a flight test of the modernised B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb using an F-35A, marking a major milestone in its nuclear deterrence program.

The US has confirmed that it has successfully carried out the testing of a B61-12 tactical thermonuclear bomb. This is the first non-nuclear flight test of the B61-12 variant on an F-35 aircraft. The test was carried out from August 19 to 21 in the test site in Nevada and confirmed by the US Department of Energy's Sandia National Laboratories on November 13. The report confirmed that the tests yielded successful results. Inert units of the B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb were successfully carried and dropped by an F-35 aircraft. The tests solidify the end-to-end reliability of the aircraft, crew and weapon system. The life-extension programme (LEP) for the B61-12 was completed in 2024; these tests extend the service by at least 20 years. “These B61-12 F-35A stockpile flight tests and captive carry flight test were the capstone accomplishment of a tremendous amount of planning and effort by those who were involved across not only Sandia, but many other agencies,” said Sandia’s Jeffrey Boyd, surveillance lead for the B61-12 and B61-13. What is the B61-12 gravity bomb? B61‑12 is a modernised version of the B61 family, an unguided, free-fall weapon that relies on gravity. The test was a test of the ability to integrate with F-35A fighter jets. The thermal pre‑conditioning of the test signifies that it can survive carriage under any realistic conditions. However, this is not a nuclear test but a test of the delivery system, integrated with the F-35A for reliability. While this marks a significant milestone for F-35A, it was certified for nuclear strike in 2023, implying that the process was going on for a couple of years. In contrast to the US Air Force’s F-22 Raptor, which primarily focuses on air-to-air combat, the F-35A was designed from the outset to incorporate tactical nuclear strike capabilities. “The F-35A is the first 5th generation nuclear-capable aircraft ever, and the first new platform (fighter or bomber) to achieve this status since the early 1990s,” said Russ Goemaere, a spokesperson of the F-35 Joint Program Office. In October, US President Donald Trump suggested that Russia, China, and even Pakistan are carrying out nuclear tests underground, and the US will start its own tests. The US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, while talking to Fox News, downplayed Trump's statements, saying that these are most likely "system tests", not “nuclear explosions”.

The US has successfully conducted a flight test of the modernised B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb using an F-35A, marking a major milestone in its nuclear deterrence program.

US confirms first successful B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb flight test from F-35

Saudi Arabia moved forward on its F-35 fighter jet deal with the U.S., a sale that could significantly alter Israel’s military edge in West Asia. The agreement, closely watched by regional observers, signals deepening military ties between Riyadh and Washington.

Analysts note the sale could trigger a strategic shift in the region, prompting countries like Israel to reassess defense strategies amid changing balances of power.

F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia Completed | Israel’s Military Edge Shaken

Saudi Arabia’s long-sought request to buy up to 48 F-35 fighter jets has cleared its first major Pentagon hurdle, sources tell Reuters. The multi-billion-dollar deal—pending final approval from President Trump and the US Congress—could dramatically alter the Middle East’s military balance and test Washington’s promise to preserve Israel’s “qualitative military edge.”

Saudi Arabia’s F-35 Deal Clears Pentagon Hurdle | Could It Reshape Middle East Power? 

Türkiye Is Making A Major Push To Modernize Its Air Force — And President Erdogan Wants U.S. Sanctions Lifted To Rejoin The F-35 Fighter Jet Program. After Years Of Tension Over Ankara’s Ties With Moscow And The S-400 Deal, Türkiye Is Now Seeking A Reset With Washington. Will The U.S. Respond? What Does This Mean For NATO's Southern Flank?

Erdogan Pushes Washington to Lift Sanctions, Revive F-35 Access

The F-22, launched in 2005, was engineered for unrivalled air dominance and is operated exclusively by the United States. The F-35, introduced in 2015, is a multirole, networked fighter flown by the US and over 15 allied nations worldwide.

The F-22, launched in 2005, was engineered for unrivalled air dominance and is operated exclusively by the United States. The F-35, introduced in 2015, is a multirole, networked fighter flown by the US and over 15 allied nations worldwide.

F-22 vs F-35: 6 shocking facts that reveal how America’s fifth-generation stealth fighter jets are worlds apart

This integration allows pilots to maintain situational awareness without needing to look down at cockpit instruments, enhancing their ability to respond swiftly in combat scenarios. 

This integration allows pilots to maintain situational awareness without needing to look down at cockpit instruments, enhancing their ability to respond swiftly in combat scenarios.&nbsp;

5 fighter jets that use Iron-Man-style helmets for targeting and vision

The F-35 Lightning II boasts the Gen III Helmet-Mounted Display System (HMDS), which projects critical flight data directly onto the pilot's visor.

The F-35 Lightning II boasts the Gen III Helmet-Mounted Display System (HMDS), which projects critical flight data directly onto the pilot's visor.

Top 7 fighter jets so extreme pilots need smart suits just to stay conscious

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US intel warns China can steal F-35 jets secret from Saudis

Why the F-35 uses its jet fuel to cool hot electronics

Why the F-35 internal weapons bays open so quickly

Why the F-35 relies on one pilot for complex missions

How the F-35 pilot sees straight through the floor

Why the F-35 can fly dangerous combat missions without turning on its radar

Why the massive F-35 relies on only one engine instead of two

'Fifth-generation fighters': Can the S-400 shoot down an F-35?

F-35: The jet designed to strike without warning

Which US fighter jet is most commonly used for surveillance during the Iran war?

F-35 Divide Deepens: Israel Expands Fleet As Canada Eyes Swedish Alternative

Israel approves purchase of F-35, F-15IA fighter jets from US – What’s in deal?

Canada To Back Out Of F-35 Deal With US?

Why India isn't ready to unlock F-35 'Black Box' as Lockheed Martin confirms no talks currently exist

‘10,800+ strikes’: Which jets did Israel use most against Iran in the war?

US Could Expand Air Patrols Over Canada

Washington Warns It May Increase Air Operations Over Canada

Why Al Udeid Air Base matters as US deploys jets and bombers amid Iran tensions

Turkish President Erdogan Wants Reentry in US Led F-35 Programme

How the F-35 fighter jet sees through clouds, fog and darkness

F-35 fighter jet maintenance secrets: How much does it really cost?

F‑35 failures: 6 crashes that revealed the flaws of one of world’s costliest jet

F-35 vs SU-35: The Ultimate Battle for Air Superiority

F-35 vs SU-35: The Ultimate Battle for Air Superiority

US confirms first successful B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb flight test from F-35

F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia Completed | Israel’s Military Edge Shaken