IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir visited Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel to assess readiness and meet flight crews, the IDF reported on Wednesday. During the tour, he said the Israel Air Force is the military’s strategic arm and reviewed the integration of newly arrived F-35I “Adir” fighter jets.
Zamir was accompanied by IAF Chief of Staff Brig.-Gen. Gilad Keinan, the Nevatim base commander, and other senior officers. He examined procedures for fast-breaking scenarios and observed how the new aircraft are being integrated into operational squadrons, the military stated.
“The Air Force is at the forefront of offensive and defensive efforts in near and far arenas over the past two years of fighting,” Zamir told pilots. He said the IAF has amassed unique operational experience, emphasizing that lessons learned will be applied to ensure Israel’s security at all times.
He added that IAF pilots, with full support from across the corps and in cooperation with Military Intelligence, strike targets across the Middle East to remove threats and defend Israeli civilians.
Three additional F-35I jets joined the fleet this week, which he called a significant milestone in strengthening the IDF’s operational edge.
IDF prepares to respond to regional threats
According to the IDF, the visit focused on readiness for sudden escalations given the tensions in Iran and the integration of “Adir” fighters at Nevatim, home to Israel’s F-35 squadrons. The military said it continues to refine procedures for rapid, precise strikes alongside layered air and missile defense.
Zamir said the IDF is prepared for multiple contingencies and is constantly improving capabilities to secure victory in the broader campaign against Israel’s enemies. “This is our responsibility and our mission,” he told aircrews.
The tour came as the IAF highlights air and missile defense readiness amid heightened regional tensions. In recent weeks, Zamir has reviewed air-defense units and wider modernization efforts, including elements of a multi-year plan and new operational formations.
“We will continue strengthening the air force in the coming years as a decisive strategic arm, ready to meet and defeat any challenge,” Zamir said.