The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) signed what it called a landmark transaction to acquire the next generation of F-15 fighter jets – the F-15IA – from the United Sates. Israel is purchasing 25 of the advanced aircraft from Boeing for $5.2 billion.
This comes as the American Air Force is said to be sending its own F-15 fighter jets to the Middle East in anticipation of another Iranian assault on Israel.
The IMOD said that this agreement is part of a broader package of U.S. aid approved by the U.S. Administration and Congress earlier this year. It includes an option for 25 additional aircraft. The deal was finalized yesterday following negotiations between the IMOD’s Mission to the U.S. and Boeing in collaboration with the Israeli Air Force. Director General of the IMOD, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir signed the procurement authorization during his visit to the United States last month.
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The F-15IA is a cutting-edge fighter jet developed by Boeing specifically for the Israeli Air Force. It’s based on the F-15EX model used by the US Air Force, but with several enhancements tailored to Israel’s unique operational needs.
The new F-15IA aircraft will be equipped with cutting-edge weapon systems, including the integration of state of the art Israeli technologies. The upgraded aircraft will feature enhanced range capabilities, increased payload capacity, and improved performance across various operational scenarios. These advantages will enable the Israeli Air Force to maintain its strategic superiority in addressing current and future challenges in the Middle East.
The F-15IA will significantly bolster the Israeli Air Force’s capabilities, enabling it to maintain air superiority, conduct long-range strikes, and defend against evolving threats. It will serve as a crucial component of Israel’s defense strategy for years to come.
Delivery of the F-15 aircraft will begin in 2031, with 4-6 aircraft to be supplied annually. This procurement marks a significant milestone in deepening the defense cooperation between Israel and the United States, reflecting their mutual commitment to regional security.
Director General of the IMOD, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, said “The Ministry is executing a comprehensive strategy to enhance the IDF’s operational capabilities. We have secured procurement agreements worth nearly $40 billion (approximately NIS 150 billion) since the onset of the war. While focusing on immediate needs for advanced weaponry and ammunition at unprecedented levels, we’re simultaneously investing in long-term strategic capabilities. This F-15 squadron, alongside the third F-35 squadron procured earlier this year, represents a historic enhancement of our air power and strategic reach – capabilities that proved crucial during the current war. We continue to advance similar transformative agreements across all IDF domains – from air and naval forces to ground operations, intelligence, and beyond.”