The first F-35 fighter-jet made for the Israeli Air Force was rolled out in Fort Worth in Texas on Wednesday at a ceremony attended by Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman.
The stealth jet is the first of 33 ordered by Israel, which intends to eventually purchase 75 planes.
Production delays and multi-billion cost overruns have made the development of the "fifth-generation" fighter a controversial project. Israeli commanders, however, believe that it will enhance the IAF's ability to evade radar and air-defence systems, and boost intelligence capabilities by using airborne sensors to supply the pilot with a complete "battlefield picture".
While 11 nations so far have ordered the F-35, including the UK, Israel's F-35I model will have some unique features, including Israeli-made electronic-warfare and communication systems. It will also carry Israeli air-to-air missiles and guided munitions, including a version of the "bunker-busting" bomb.
Israel has received assurances from the Obama administration that no Arab allies of the US will receive the F-35 in the near future.
To get more Israel news, click here to sign up for our free Israel Briefing newsletter.