Israel Aerospace Industries has delivered the first two Conformal Airborne Early Warning & Control System aircraft to the Italian Air Force.

The Conformal Airborne Early Warning & Control System, or CAEW, is an early warning and control system installed on the Gulfstream G550 plane. The aircraft are already in service with air forces in Israel and Singapore. The United States plans to follow Italy in procuring the planes.

The CAEW aircraft were officially delivered to the branch during a ceremony, which Israel Aerospace Industries officials say marked a significant step forward in their program with Italy.

"The system reflects the deep, fruitful collaboration between the Italian and Israeli ministries of defense," Brig. Gen. Daniel Gold said in a press release. "It's both sides understanding of the needs and challenges that stand before the other."

Israel Aerospace Industries was initially contracted for the aircraft in 2012. The planes were developed by IAI subsidiary ELTA Systems, and have been equipped with radar, communications systems, and electronic intelligence systems. The Italian air force planes to enter the aircraft into service in 2017.

"We are proud that this joint development program between IAI, Italian industry, and the Italian Ministry of Defense, has been highly successful and met the challenging schedule," IAI president and CEO Joseph Weiss added. "We look forward to continuing this model of international cooperation with additional countries and customers."