The Israeli Ministry of Defense signed a historic deal yesterday (Wednesday) for the purchase of the next generation of F-15 fighter jets, through the purchase of 25 advanced aircraft from Boeing.

The $5.2 billion deal, which is part of a broader package of US aid approved by the US administration and Congress earlier this year, includes an option to purchase 25 additional aircraft.

The deal was completed yesterday after negotiations between the delegation of the Israeli Ministry of Defense to the US and the Boeing Company in cooperation with the Israeli Air Force. The director general of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, Major General (Ret.) Eyal Zamir, signed the purchase permit during his visit to the US last month.

The new F-15IA will be equipped with advanced weapon systems, including the latest Israeli technology. The updated aircraft will include improved range capabilities, increased cargo carrying capacity and improved performance in various operational scenarios. Also, the manufacturing company claimed that this aircraft can be dressed in a special suit that will make the aircraft have stealth characteristics from enemy radars.

These advantages will allow the Israeli Air Force to maintain its strategic superiority in dealing with current and future challenges in the Middle East.

Deliveries of F-15s are scheduled to begin in 2031, with between 4 and 6 aircraft delivered each year. This purchase indicates the deepening of the security cooperation between Israel and the USA.

The Director General of the Ministry of Defense, Colonel (Ret.) Eyal Zamir, said: "The Ministry is implementing a comprehensive strategy to improve the operational capabilities of the IDF. We managed to obtain purchase agreements in the amount of about 40 billion dollars (about 150 billion shekels) since the beginning of the war."

"While we are focusing on the immediate needs of advanced weapons and ammunition at unprecedented levels, we are simultaneously investing in long-term strategic capabilities."

"This F-15 squadron, along with the third F-35 squadron acquired earlier this year, represent a historic enhancement of our Air Force and strategic range – capabilities that have proven critical during the current war."

We continue to promote similar revolutionary agreements in all areas of the IDF - from the Air Force and the Navy to ground operations, intelligence and beyond."

Photo: Reuters