Israel Acquires 25 F-15IA Worth $5.2 Billion (RM21.95 Billion) from the United States
The acquisition of Boeing-manufactured F-15 fighter jets underscores the United States' continued role as Israel's largest arms supplier and primary security "shield."
By
admin on November 8, 2024
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Israel’s Ministry of Defense has signed a historic procurement contract valued at an estimated US$5.2 billion (RM21.95 billion) for 25 F-15 fighter jets.
The first jets will be delivered in 2031, with the full fleet of 25 aircraft expected to be handed over to Israel within five years.
The acquisition of the Boeing-manufactured F-15s reaffirms the United States’ role as Israel’s largest arms supplier and primary security ally.
The purchase has been anticipated this year despite Israel’s ongoing conflicts in Gaza and tensions with neighboring countries, including Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.
According to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, negotiations concluded recently between the ministry’s representatives in the United States, Boeing, and the Israeli Air Force.
Media reports also indicate that the ministry’s Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, signed the “procurement authorization” for the fighter jets during his visit to the United States last week.
The fighter jet, designated the F-15IA by Israel, will replace older models of the F-15 and F-16 in Israel’s fleet.
“The F-15IA fighter will be equipped with advanced weaponry, integrated with Israel’s cutting-edge technology. This upgraded jet offers enhanced range, payload, and performance across various scenarios and operations,” the Israeli Ministry of Defense stated.
These advantages, it said, will allow the Israeli Air Force to maintain a strategic edge in addressing current and future challenges in the Middle East.
Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, Director General of the Ministry of Defense, further noted that Israel has procured a range of arms, primarily from the United States, valued at US$40 billion (RM175 billion) since the Gaza conflict erupted in October last year, followed by other conflicts involving Iran, Yemen, southern Lebanon, and others.
He added that the newly planned F-15 squadrons, alongside Israel’s recently acquired third squadron of F-35s, are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Israel’s air power and strategic capabilities, which have proven vital during these periods of conflict. — DSA