According to the IDF, the engagement unfolded early morning when the Adir locked onto and neutralized the enemy jet mid-air. The Yak-130, primarily a trainer but deployed for combat roles against drones and missiles in this flare-up, posed a direct threat that Israel swiftly eliminated.

The IDF shared the news on X, stating proudly: ‘Iranian jet downed: Air Force F-35I “Adir” fighter jet shoots down Iranian Air Force Yak-130 fighter jet. Historic first for the F-35 “Adir” against a manned fighter.’ This feat comes amid heightened Israel-Iran hostilities, marked by relentless exchanges of airstrikes and missile attacks on strategic assets.

Operation ‘Roaring Lion’ entered its third day with Iranian missiles raining down, triggering widespread emergency responses. Magen David Adom (MDA) dispatched teams to dozens of sites, ferrying 60 wounded to medical facilities—one in fair condition, 59 stable. Cumulative stats show MDA handling 369 cases: 10 dead, two critical, five minor, and 352 superficial injuries.

Experts view this F-35 triumph as a game-changer, potentially deterring further Iranian aggression while bolstering Israel’s defensive posture. The region braces for Iran’s response, with diplomatic channels strained to the breaking point.