Israeli Air Force Technicians Charged in Major Iran Espionage Case Involving Fighter Jet Intelligence

Two technicians from the Israeli Air Force have been formally charged with espionage, accused of collaborating with Iranian intelligence in a case authorities describe as one of the most serious recent security breaches.

According to an indictment filed by military prosecutors, the two individuals were serving as F 15 aircraft mechanics at Tel Nof Airbase when they allegedly engaged in prolonged contact with Iranian operatives. Officials stated that the suspects carried out multiple assignments under foreign direction and received financial compensation.

One of the accused faces charges including aiding an enemy during wartime, transferring sensitive information, and facilitating contact with a foreign agent. The second individual has been charged with maintaining contact with a foreign agent and providing intelligence to an enemy entity.

In a joint statement, the Shin Bet, the Israel Defense Forces, and national police confirmed that the suspects admitted to interacting with Iranian handlers. The statement noted that communication was initially halted after the pair declined to perform tasks involving weapons.

“However, even after the contact was cut off at the initiative of the handler, they did not cease attempts to renew contact, for the purpose of financial gain,” the statement said.

Investigators revealed that over several months, the suspects “maintained contact with Iranian intelligence elements and carried out various tasks under their direction in exchange for money.” Authorities allege that one of the technicians transferred training materials related to fighter aircraft systems, along with documentation of restricted military areas.

Reports from Kan indicate that the shared materials included a detailed diagram of an aircraft engine and photographs that exposed the identity of an aviation instructor. Additional claims suggested the suspects were tasked with gathering intelligence on senior Israeli figures, including former military chief Herzi Halevi and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, though this aspect has not been officially confirmed.

Authorities also examined whether other personnel at the base were aware of the activities but failed to report them. Following the discovery of the case, base leadership conducted internal briefings emphasizing operational security and the risks of unauthorized contact with foreign entities.

The investigation was carried out jointly by security agencies and law enforcement bodies. Officials reiterated a warning to citizens and military personnel, stating they “again warn Israeli citizens, including soldiers, about the very act of maintaining contact with foreign elements from enemy states, let alone carrying out tasks for them in exchange for payment or any other benefit.”

This case is part of a broader pattern in which individuals are allegedly recruited online by Iran linked operatives. Authorities say such recruitment often begins with minor assignments and gradually escalates into more serious intelligence gathering activities.

Earlier this week, two additional suspects were charged in a separate case involving alleged contact with an Iranian agent, with prosecutors claiming one had planned to travel abroad to meet a handler.