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'Israel' inks $5.2 bln deal with Boeing to acquire 25 F-15 warplanes

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
7 Nov 2024 15:09

The Israeli Security Ministry says the F-15IA jets would be "equipped with cutting-edge weapons systems, including the integration of cutting-edge Israeli technologies."

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An Israeli Air Force F-15 warplane is seen before landing in an airbase in central occupied Palestine, Monday, April 15, 2024 (AP)

"Israel" has announced the purchase of 25 "next generation" F-15 fighter jets in a $5.2 billion agreement with Boeing, funded through US military aid, according to the occupation entity's Security Ministry.

The contract includes an option for an additional 25 jets, with deliveries expected to begin in 2031 at a rate of four to six aircraft per year, the Ministry confirmed in a statement.

The F-15IA jets would be "equipped with cutting-edge weapons systems, including the integration of cutting-edge Israeli technologies," the statement highlighted.

It added that the upgraded aircraft will offer enhanced range, payload capacity, and 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."

Since the outset of the war on Gaza, "Israel" has secured nearly $40 billion in arms deals, according to Security Ministry Director General Eyal Zamir.

"While focusing on immediate needs for advanced weaponry and ammunition at unprecedented levels, we're simultaneously investing in long-term strategic capabilities," he pointed out in the statement.

He emphasized that "this F-15 squadron, alongside the third F-35 squadron procured earlier this year, represents a historic enhancement of our air power and strategic reach -- capabilities that proved crucial during the current war."

Since October last year, the Israeli Air Force has conducted relentless airstrikes in the region, killing 43,391 people in the Gaza Strip and more than 3,000 others in Lebanon, in addition to leveling civilian infrastructure.

Israeli aircraft have also been used in repeated assaults on Syria and Yemen, as well as Iran.

In late September, "Israel" received a new US military aid package totaling $8.7 billion.

Ido Nehushtan, president of Boeing Israel, pointed to the long-standing relationship with the Israeli occupation entity and confirmed the company's commitment to "working with the U.S. and Israeli governments to deliver the advanced F-15IA aircraft through standard military procurement channels."