In a strategic decision, the Israeli Ministry of Defense recently announced that it would purchase 25 F-15IA fighter jets from Boeing.
The investment, worth $5,2 billion, will be fully financed by US military aid, the ministry said on November 7, 2024. Delivery of the first aircraft is scheduled for 2031. According to the original plan, Israel will receive an option for an additional 25 aircraft, which could significantly expand the F-15IA fleet.
The purchase of the F-15IA, a special version of the F-15EX Eagle II, shows that Israel wants to further modernize its arsenal. The F-15IA jets are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including digital cockpits, radar and electronic warfare systems and improved communications capabilities, which are intended to optimize cooperation with Israel's F-35I 'Adir' fleet. In particular, the F-15IA jets are said to be able to carry up to 24 air-to-air missiles and are therefore well equipped for complex air superiority missions.
The director of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, Major General Eyal Zamir, highlighted the importance of the new fleet for Israel's military strength. This, together with a recently acquired third squadron of F-35 fighter jets, represents a significant reinforcement of the air force and an extension of strategic reach - a capability that is crucial in the current security situation.
In addition to the new F-15IA aircraft, Israel is also planning to modernize 25 F-15I fighter aircraft that are already in service. The F-15I 'Ra'am', an adapted variant of the F-15E Strike Eagle, has been in service since the 1990s. These fighter aircraft are now to be upgraded for improved performance. The planned modernizations include both the technical renewal of the aircraft and upgrading with the latest electronics and avionics. These measures underline Israel's efforts to bring older models up to date with the latest technology and extend their service life for future missions.
The overall concept for the Israeli Air Force also includes an expansion of the F-35 fleet. In June 2024, the US government approved the sale of 25 additional F-35I 'Adir' jets, bringing the total number of these stealth fighters in Israel to 75. The combination of F-15IA and F-35I gives the Israeli Air Force unprecedented versatility and operational flexibility for a range of operations, from precision air strikes to missions requiring stealth and electronic warfare.
These upgrades and new purchases are part of a broader trend to strengthen the Israeli armed forces amid growing regional tensions. Israel is sending a clear signal that it will maintain its defense capabilities at the highest level and be able to respond flexibly to threats posed by Iran and other regional actors. At the same time, these measures aim to further improve interoperability with the US armed forces.
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