Satellite images show 11 US F-22 Raptors at Israel's Ovda Air Force Base

China’s MizarVision satellite firm published images today of the Ovda Israeli Air Force base, where 11 F-22 “Raptor” stealth aircraft can be seen deployed at the base.

Satellite imagery confirms the KAN News report from last evening that the U.S. has set up a full squadron at a southern airbase. This is considered a rare deployment outside U.S. borders, granting Americans the unique capabilities of F-22 “Raptor” stealth fighters. Air Force commander Tomer Bar also toured the base hosting the aircraft.

Eleven F-22 fighter jets landed in Israel, KAN News reported two days ago, in a move tied to U.S. regional preparations in the Middle East.

In the last 24 hours, the southern base has seen the arrival of transport aircraft, refueling tankers, and a passenger plane used by the U.S. military to send troops to various locations worldwide. These are likely technicians, maintenance, ordnance, and operations personnel, to provide support for the fighter squadron.

Israel has declined to comment on the arrival of the F-22 squadron, though a U.S. Central Command official confirmed the move to KAN News two days ago. 

Washington’s decision to deploy the F-22 squadron specifically in Israel is likely reflects the country's missile defense readiness, given its experience in the campaign against Iran in June of last year.