Tel Aviv: Israel plans to sign the contract for the acquisition of 25 Boeing F-15IA in early 2026. The letter of agreement (LOA) for the US $5.2 billion deal was signed in 2024 but the final contract has not been signed yet due to budget problems. If the contract is signed next year, deliveries are expected to begin in 2031.
The F-15IA (Israeli Advanced) is a specific version of the F-15 EX with many systems that Israel requested and preparations for additional one to be deployed after the aircraft is delivered.
The deal includes a special test aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2029.
The F-15IA will offer advance radar, increased payload, and the ability to carry a wide array of Israeli and American munitions. It will support long-range strike missions and enhance Israel’s strategic air power.
The acquisition aims to replace ageing F-15s and F-16s, ensuring the Israeli Air Force maintains a technological and operational edge in the region amid ongoing security challenges.
The F-15IA programme includes not only new aircraft but also the upgrade of existing F-15I fighters (designated as F-15I+) with similar advanced systems, further modernising the Israeli Air Force’s strike capabilities.
Like in the F-35 programme, the special test aircraft will enable the Israeli Air Force together with the Israeli defence industries to develop and test specific Israeli systems and ammunitions to be carried by the advanced fighter aircraft.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
