Israel Secures $5.2 Billion F-15 Fighter Jet Deal with Boeing Amid Ongoing Conflict
Israel’s defense ministry announced on Thursday a significant agreement with Boeing to procure 25 next-generation F-15 fighter jets in a deal valued at $5.2 billion. The purchase will be financed through U.S. military aid. The contract also includes an option for an additional 25 aircraft, with deliveries anticipated to commence in 2031, at a rate of four to six jets per year.
According to the defense ministry, the new F-15IA jets will be outfitted with advanced weapon systems, incorporating cutting-edge Israeli technologies. The updated aircraft are expected to offer enhanced range, increased payload capacity, and improved performance across a variety of operational scenarios.
Eyal Zamir, director-general of the defense ministry, highlighted that since the onset of the conflict with Hamas, Israel has secured arms purchase agreements totaling nearly $40 billion. He emphasized the country’s dual focus on immediate military needs while also strategically investing in long-term capabilities.
“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,” Zamir stated.
The announcement comes during a period of heightened military activity, with Israel’s air force conducting multiple operations against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon since the unprecedented attack by Hamas in October of the previous year. The Israeli military also launched retaliatory strikes against Iran following missile attacks directed at Israel in late October.
In a related development, Israel recently received a new package of U.S. military aid valued at $8.7 billion at the end of September, further supporting its defense capabilities during these turbulent times.
