A Eurofighter of the German Air Force will take part in a fly-past to mark Israeli Independence Day next week for the first time, the Israeli military announced on Friday.

The Eagle Star 2.0 is to be piloted by Ingo Gerhartz, the highest-ranking officer in the German Air Force. It will display both the Israeli and the German flags on its wings.

The independence celebrations, marking 75 years since the state of Israel was established, are being held in accordance with the Jewish Calendar. Israel was founded on May 14, 1948.

The celebrations begin on Tuesday with a ceremony in Jerusalem, when 12 torches will be lit, symbolizing the 12 tribes of Israel referred to in the bible.

Parties and fireworks are planned in many cities. Israelis traditionally gather with friends and family to barbecue on the day.

This year, opponents of the judicial reform being pushed through by the right-wing religious government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have pledged “the largest demonstration in Israeli history.”
Massive protests over recent weeks have forced a postponement of the plans to curb the powers of the courts, but talks to resolve the dispute have failed to achieve a breakthrough.