In a significant move to bolster its military capabilities, Israel is set to receive 25 F-15 fighter jets from Boeing, with the U.S. government approving an $8.6 billion deal, as announced by the Pentagon on Monday.
This agreement includes the production of the F-15IA variant, with an option to purchase an additional 25 jets. These aircraft will be manufactured at Boeing’s facility in St. Louis, Missouri, with the project expected to be completed by the end of 2035.
The announcement followed a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago, Florida. This deal is considered the largest defense procurement in Israel’s history.
The original agreement, signed in November 2024, was valued at $5.2 billion. The increased valuation in the latest announcement is attributed to the potential purchase of more aircraft, as part of a broader defense assistance pact between the U.S. and Israel.
The F-15IA model will be an upgrade from the F-15s that have been part of the Israeli Air Force since 1998. These new jets will feature enhanced long-range attack capabilities, an armament capacity of up to 14 tons, and advanced fly-by-wire guidance systems. They will also be equipped with various Israeli defense systems.
For Israel, acquiring these jets is crucial for maintaining air superiority and strategic strike capabilities. Deliveries are anticipated to begin by 2031, with 4-6 jets arriving annually.
Israel has previously disclosed that F-15 and F-15I models took part in operations during the 12-Day War against Iran last June, where they were used in ground target strikes.
