Israel has signed a significant USD 5.2 billion deal to procure 25 advanced fighter jets, with funding provided through U.S. military aid, the Defense Ministry announced. The deal includes 25 Boeing F-15IA fighter jets, a modified Israeli version of the advanced F-15EX, with an option for an additional 25 jets. The aircraft will be delivered in batches of four to six each year.
The new jets will be equipped with cutting-edge weapon systems, incorporating state-of-the-art Israeli technologies. The upgraded F-15IAs will feature enhanced range capabilities, increased payload capacity, and improved performance in various operational scenarios. …CONTINUE READING
These advancements will allow the Israeli Air Force to maintain its strategic edge and effectively address current and future security challenges in the Middle East.
“The upgraded aircraft will feature enhanced range capabilities, increased payload capacity, and improved performance across various operational scenarios. These advantages will enable the Israeli Air Force to maintain its strategic superiority in addressing current and future challenges in the Middle East,” the ministry was quoted as saying by The Times of Israel.
Eyal Zamir, the Director General of Israel’s Defense Ministry, stated that Israel has secured nearly USD 40 billion in procurement agreements since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict on October 7, 2023. This was when thousands of Hamas-led terrorists launched an attack on the southern part of Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.
Zamir emphasized that while Israel is prioritizing the immediate need for advanced weaponry and ammunition, the country is also investing in long-term strategic capabilities. The recent procurement of the F-15 squadron, along with the third F-35 squadron secured earlier this year, is seen as a historic boost to Israel’s air power and strategic reach—essential capabilities that have proven crucial in the ongoing conflict.
Calls to restrict weapons sales to Israel
The news of Israel’s recent defense deal comes at a time when calls to restrict weapons sales to Israel are gaining traction within the international community, including from some of its allies. On Wednesday, Egypt joined Turkey’s efforts—supported by 52 other nations, including Russia and China—urging the United Nations to impose an arms embargo on Israel.
Earlier in October, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that an arms embargo was the only way to end the war in Gaza. Additionally, in September, concerned over Israel’s conduct in the conflict, Britain and Canada suspended certain arms trade licenses with Israel, though they stopped short of endorsing a full embargo.
Despite these pressures, Israel’s two largest arms suppliers, the United States and Germany, have resisted calls for an embargo. However, both countries have been accused of withholding certain military supplies during the ongoing conflict.
F-15 agreement is second major deal this year
For Boeing, the F-15 deal marks the second major agreement secured this year. In August, Israel’s flag carrier, El Al Israel Airlines, signed a deal with Boeing for the purchase of up to 31 737 MAX aircraft, valued at up to USD 2.5 billion, surpassing rival Airbus in the process.
The president of Boeing Israel, former Israel Air Force chief Ido Nehushtan, said in a statement, “Boeing takes pride in its longstanding partnership with Israel, a relationship that dates back to our nation’s establishment.”
“The company will continue working with the US and Israeli governments to deliver the advanced F-15IA aircraft through standard military procurement channels,” chief Nehushtan said as per The Times of Israel.
