Israel to receive 50 new F-15IA Eagle II Fighter Jets from US.

On April 2, 2024, CNN revealed that the Biden administration is preparing to formally notify Congress of its intention to approve the sale of 50 F-15EX fighter jets to Israel, in a deal valued at $18 billion. This transaction includes the acquisition of 25 new F-15EX "Eagle 2", also designated "F-15IA Ra’am II" in Israeli terminology and the upgrade of 25 existing F-15I aircraft to this advanced standard. The new jets, which will take about five years to build, respond to an initial request from Israel in January 2023 aimed at strengthening its air force.
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Israeli F-15IA Eagle II Fighter Jets (Picture source: Boeing)

The F-15EX "Eagle II", derived from the McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle, is an all-weather multi-role fighter bomber. It is the result of an initiative to modernize the American air fleet, addressing the need to replace aging F-15C/D aircraft with a more capable platform, while preserving industrial diversity with Boeing. With the integration of advanced technologies such as the AESA APG-82 radar, an EPAWSS electronic warfare system, and an advanced communication suite, the F-15EX positions itself as a valuable addition to Israeli air operations.

The F-15EX "Eagle II", at the center of this agreement, represents an advanced evolution of the McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle, incorporating significant improvements to enhance its operational capabilities. Powered by two new F110-GE-129 engines, the F-15EX benefits from exceptional power, enabling it to maintain supersonic speeds with a significant payload. This aircraft is notably equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) APG-82(V)1 radar from Raytheon Technologies, ensuring precise target detection and tracking.

The Israeli version, the F-15IA, is specially tailored to the operational requirements of the IAF. It stands out with the integration of digital flight controls and a Large Area Display (LAD) glass cockpit, providing pilots with increased visibility and control. Additionally, the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS), co-produced by Elbit Systems and Rockwell Collins, and the Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) electronic warfare system from BAE Systems, enhance the fighter's survivability and effectiveness in hostile environments.

The F-15IA's armament includes 12 air-to-air and 15 air-to-ground weapon stations, giving the aircraft impressive versatility and firepower. An advanced mission computer (ADCP-II) and modern data links enable effective communication with other platforms, such as the F-35, thereby optimizing integration and synergy within the Air Force.

Although exact delivery dates are yet to be confirmed, it is anticipated that Israel could begin receiving its new fighters as early as 2028, according to information from the Israel Times. The media also suggests that Israel might exert pressure to expedite these deliveries. Furthermore, an option for the acquisition of an additional 25 aircraft has been mentioned, paving the way for a future expansion of the Israeli air fleet.