Israel Signs $5.2 Billion Deal to Purchase 25 F-15 Fighter Jets

The Israeli Defence Ministry said Thursday it has sealed a US$5.2-billion deal with US-based Boeing to purchase 25 advanced F-15 fighter jets.
The ministry said in a statement the deal is part of a broader aid package approved by the US administration and Congress earlier this year. The agreement includes an option for 25 additional aircraft.

Concluded on Wednesday between the US administration and Boeing, the deal consisted of the delivery of F-15IA fighter jets that are configured with weapon systems combined with weapons from Israel, a longer range as well as greater payload carrying capacity.

"These capabilities will enable the Israeli Air Force to stay ahead in the field strategically when addressing the threats that beset the Middle East, currently and in the near future," said the ministry.

According to Xinhua news agency, delivery will begin in 2031 with between four and six jets expected annually.

"This new F-15 squadron acquisition, coupled with the third F-35 squadron purchased earlier this year, marks a historic boost in our air power and strategic reach capabilities that proved critical in the current conflict," said Eyal Zamir, Defense Ministry director-general.

Zamir, who acknowledged that "since the war started in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023," Israel has secured orders worth nearly $40 billion, said, "the process is very slow."