External fuel tanks for the F-35 are once again included in the plans of the US Air Force

F-35

Plans to equip F-35 fighter jets with external fuel tanks have reappeared in the new budget of the US Air Force for fiscal year 2026. Earlier attempts to introduce such tanks were not implemented, but now this task is back on the program's priority list, sources close to the development said.

External fuel tanks will significantly increase the range of the F-35 without refueling in the air, which is especially important for long-range strike missions and operations in remote regions. Israel, one of the key operators of the F-35, has long insisted on expanding the aircraft's fuel capacity, given the need for long-range penetration, for example, to strike targets in Iran. For this purpose, both dropable tanks and conformal fuel tanks (CFTs) are being developed, which provide a lower aerodynamic penalty and do not occupy overhead pylons, while maintaining armament capabilities.

The implementation of this initiative will increase the operational flexibility and autonomy of the F-35, reduce dependence on air tankers and expand the tactical capabilities of the aircraft. At the same time, the integration of external tanks requires careful refinement of the aircraft's systems in order to maintain its stealth and maneuverability.