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Israel has signed a $5.2 billion contract to acquire 25 advanced F-15IA fighter jets from Boeing, according to The Times of Israel. This U.S.-financed agreement, announced by the Israeli Defense Ministry, will see the first deliveries start in 2031, with Boeing supplying four to six jets per year and an option for an additional 25 aircraft in the future. The new jets, featuring enhanced range and payload capacity, are set to bolster Israel’s strategic air capabilities for both current and future defense scenarios.
The F-15IA is a tailored version of Boeing’s F-15EX, incorporating cutting-edge Israeli technologies alongside advanced weaponry. The Defense Ministry highlighted the jets’ upgraded range, payload, and performance, stating these advantages would allow the Israeli Air Force to address current and future regional threats with increased strategic flexibility.
Eyal Zamir, Director General of the Defense Ministry, noted that since the recent escalation in Gaza, Israel has signed approximately $40 billion in defense contracts. “While meeting immediate needs for advanced weaponry and ammunition, we are also focused on long-term strategic capabilities,” said Zamir. This newly ordered F-15IA squadron complements Israel’s third F-35 squadron, enhancing the country’s air power and strategic reach.
Boeing Israel’s President, former Israel Air Force Chief Ido Nehushtan, emphasized the longstanding partnership between Boeing and Israel, adding that Boeing will maintain collaboration with both U.S. and Israeli governments to deliver the F-15IA aircraft via established military procurement channels.
While Israel’s two main arms suppliers, the U.S. and Germany, continue their support, certain international voices are calling for stricter arms policies regarding Israel. Recently, Egypt and Turkey, joined by over 50 nations, urged the United Nations to impose an arms embargo on Israel. French President Emmanuel Macron also supported an embargo as a means to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Despite such calls, the U.S. and Germany remain steadfast in their defense commitments to Israel.
Source: The Times of Israel
Edited: Katerina Urbanova
Photo credit: An F-15I fighter jet of the IAF’s 69th Squadron takes off from the Hatzerim Airbase in southern Israel to carry out a strike in Beirut against Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, September 27, 2024. (Israel Defense Forces)