Israel acquires 25 F-15IAs to bolster its air force in the face of regional challenges, complementing the F-35I already in service.
After three decades, Israel is relaunching its acquisition of F-15 fighters with a contract for 25 F-15IAs. Ordered at a cost of 5.2 billion euros, these aircraft will join the F-35I in bolstering Israel’s air power, offering increased range and long-range strike capability. The F-15IAs will feature advanced technologies, combining American and Israeli innovations. Delivery is scheduled between 2031 and 2036, with an option for a further 25 aircraft.
Strategic acquisition for Israel: the choice of the F-15IA
After a hiatus of almost 30 years, Israel is relaunching the acquisition of F-15IAs for its air force, in order to maintain regional superiority in the face of growing tensions. The contract, signed with Boeing for 5.2 billion euros, includes 25 aircraft, with an option for a further 25. The F-15IA, based on the F-15EX version used by the US Air Force, combines high payload capacity and extended range, meeting Israel’s needs for long-range strikes.
Israel’s last purchase of an F-15 was in 1995, when it acquired the F-15I Ra’am, an aircraft that had been in service for many years. The modernization of the Israeli fleet takes place in a tense geopolitical context in the Middle East, where Israel faces increasingly sophisticated threats. The F-15IA will play a central role for the Israeli army, particularly in deterring Iran and other hostile forces in the region.
F-15IA technical specifications: range and strike capability
The F-15IA is equipped with advanced weapons systems and cutting-edge Israeli technologies. It has a payload capacity of over 13 tonnes, enabling it to carry a variety of missiles and guided bombs for long-range strike missions. What’s more, its operational range has been extended, thanks to an extended autonomy adapted to the requirements of strike missions beyond Israel’s borders.
Designed for multi-role missions, the F-15IA can perform air-to-air and air-to-ground operations with enhanced flexibility. For Israel, this versatility is crucial, offering both air defense and strategic strike capabilities. Complementing the F-35I Adir, the F-15IA can carry large weapons, including hypersonic missiles and air-launched ballistic missiles, providing a flexible response to regional threats.
Long-term investment: strengthening the fighter fleet
Israel sees this purchase as a long-term investment strategy for its national defense. By 2023, the Israeli Ministry of Defense has signed agreements worth a total of almost 40 billion euros to modernize its arsenal, including the acquisition of 25 F-35I Adir fighters. This choice reflects the priority Israel gives to air power in its military strategy.
Delivery of the F-15IAs will begin in 2031, at a rate of 4 to 6 aircraft a year. By adding a new squadron of Eagles, the Israeli air force is doubling its fleet of F-15 heavy fighters dedicated to strategic strikes. The ability of these aircraft to carry out reconnaissance and command missions makes them key assets for long-range operations.
Prospects and economic impact for Boeing
The Israeli contract for the F-15IA represents a major gain for Boeing. The American giant is also working on the delivery of 98 F-15EXs for the US Air Force, consolidating its position in the heavy multi-role fighter market. With this purchase, Israel reaffirms its strategic relationship with the United States, thus contributing to Boeing’s influence in the region.
For Israel, investment in the F-15IA is part of a strategy of strategic autonomy, in close collaboration with the U.S. military industry. This partnership strengthens Boeing’s competitiveness, with potential future orders coming from other countries, notably Indonesia and Poland, also interested in the advanced F-15. The Israeli contract could pave the way for further fighter sales in a market where demand for advanced technology is growing.
Complementarity with the F-35I Adir and strategic implications
The F-15IA and F-35I Adir form a powerful combination in Israel’s arsenal. The F-35I, designed for stealth and infiltration, is ideal for missions where stealth is essential. On the other hand, the F-15IA, with its increased payload and range, is designed for intensive, equipment-intensive strikes. Together, these platforms provide Israel with sustainable air superiority and the ability to respond to multiple threats, from both state and non-state actors.
This fleet reinforcement goes hand in hand with improved air command and control, for better coordination of precision strikes. By using the F-15IAs as communication relays and air command posts, the Israeli army will be able to operate in integrated networks, increasing the effectiveness of long-distance missions.
A strategic asset for Israeli defense
The acquisition of the F-15IA is in line with Israel’s proactive defense policy in the face of regional tensions. With its enhanced strike capability and ongoing fleet modernization, the Israeli army is acquiring an essential deterrent and interdiction tool in a constantly evolving security context. This program, backed by a solid military alliance with the United States, enables Israel to maintain a position of strength in the region, while contributing to the development of a high-tech air defense system adapted to contemporary challenges.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.