Israel’s Ministry of Defense (IMOD) signed Wednesday the long-awaited purchase of 25 Boeing F-15EX “Eagle II” next-generation heavy fighters, which will receive the designation F-15IA (for Israel Advance).
The $5.2 billion deal, part of a broader U.S. aid package approved by the U.S. Administration and Congress earlier this year, includes an option for an additional 25 jets.
The deal was finalized on Wednesday, November 6, after many months of negotiations between the IMOD U.S. Mission and Boeing, in collaboration with the Israel Air Force. IMOD director general Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir signed the procurement authorization during his visit to the U.S. last month.
As is customary in procurements of advanced weapon systems, Israel enjoys the authorization to integrate in-house designed technology into the F-15IA, a prerogative not usually granted to other U.S. armament buyers. This capability will allow it to equip the F-15IAs with advanced indigenous systems, differentiating them from both the F-15EXs destined for the U.S. Air Force and potential export aircraft.
As reported by the Israel Ministry of Defense, delivery of the F-15IA aircraft will begin in 2031 and between 4 and 6 aircraft will be delivered per year.
This F-15 squadron, together with the third F-35 squadron acquired earlier this year, represents a significant upgrade to the Israel Air Force’s (IAF) air power and strategic reach, capabilities that are considered much needed to maintain its regional superiority, particularly in the face of the threat of an escalation of war with Iran.
In addition to the addition of a new squadron of F-15 fighters, the IAF wants to upgrade its existing 25 F-15I Ra’am to the same level, which would receive the F-15I+ designation, as part of a comprehensive package valued at approximately $18.8 billion.
Digital Eagles
As touted by Boeing, the aircraft in their new configuration will be equipped with the most powerful computer available in modern aviation, both in the air and in space, and the most advanced AESA radar. In addition, the F-15IA and F-15I+ will feature state-of-the-art Israeli technologies, such as a Fly-By-Wire flight control system, a missile approach warning system, a large cockpit touch screen and a digital display integrated into the hull, ensuring exceptional tactical situational awareness, both in the air and on the ground.
These indigenous innovations will facilitate the integration of Israeli-origin armaments and sensor/electronic warfare pods specifically designed to meet the unique operational needs of the Israeli Air Force (IAF).
