JERUSALEM — In a significant advancement for military aviation technology, Israel’s SPICE 1000 bomb system is poised to enhance the capabilities of the F-35 fighter jets. This development follows an announcement from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the company behind the technology.
The integration of the SPICE 1000 with the F-35 is a collaborative effort between Rafael and Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the aircraft. This joint initiative is being carried out at Lockheed Martin’s facilities in the United States, with the goal of completing development and testing within the next few months.
Once fully integrated, the Israeli Air Force’s F-35I fleet, known as “Adir,” will be the first to operationally employ the SPICE 1000. Subsequently, this advanced capability is expected to be available to F-35 operators around the globe, broadening the operational reach of the fighter jets.
The SPICE 1000 system transforms standard 1,000-pound warheads into precision-guided munitions. Thanks to its gliding wings, the bomb can be released from a distance of up to 75 miles, offering a strategic advantage in combat scenarios. This technology is part of Rafael’s broader SPICE family, which also includes the SPICE 2000 and SPICE 250 variants.
Historically, the SPICE 1000 has been a cornerstone of the Israeli Air Force’s arsenal, especially on F-15 and F-16 aircraft, and played a significant role during the recent conflict with Iran. While Rafael has confirmed the sale of SPICE 1000 systems to multiple countries, specific buyers have not been disclosed. However, it is known that India approved the procurement of these systems in December 2025, as per the decision by their Defense Acquisition Council.
Currently, the Israeli Air Force operates around fifty F-35I aircraft. With ongoing procurement processes, including a recent purchase of 25 additional jets, Israel’s fleet is anticipated to expand to a total of 100 stealth fighters.
