The Israeli Ministry of Protection reportedly despatched a Letter of Request to the US authorities to accumulate 25 Eagle II plane.
After years of delays, it seems that Israel may lastly get the latest F-15 variant: the F-15EX Eagle II. In accordance with Breaking Defense and The Jerusalem Post, which quote business sources, the Ministry of Protection despatched an official Letter of Request to the USA authorities, beginning the method for the potential approval of a Overseas Army Sale.
The Israeli authorities already confirmed curiosity within the F-15EX in 2020, when buying extra F-35s and F-15s was put among the many prime priorities. Nevertheless, political instability and funds points delayed the F-15 deal, whereas solely the contract for extra F-35s was finalized. The LoR describes a need for 25 F-15EX jets, which in Israel would assume the designation F-15IA (Israel Superior), however it’s being reported that as much as 50 plane may be requested because the FMS strikes ahead.
Along with the newly constructed plane, Israel can also be requesting the improve of its 25 F-15I Ra’am, the Israeli variant of the F-15E Strike Eagle, to an avionic configuration just like the F-15EX. The Israeli Air Pressure additionally has 50 F-15 A/B/C/D plane, however they don’t seem to be concerned within the improve. In accordance with Breaking Protection, earliest deliveries of F-15IAs could possibly be anticipated in 2028, whereas a timetable for the improve of the F-15I isn’t identified.
Since 2020, the Israeli Air Pressure expressed an pressing want for extra F-15s that might haul heavy hundreds, together with heavy weapons made in Israel to destroy strengthened targets, corresponding to Iranian nuclear websites. In actual fact, the necessity for F-35s and F-15s relies on future fight eventualities and the potential must strike Iran, the place targets will probably be protected by superior air protection methods. Such eventualities would come with a number of waves of F-35s to neutralize the air defense systems and F-15s to strike nuclear services.
With the strengthened relations between Russia and Iran, which might result in Iran getting fingers on newer and extra superior gear, Israel may contemplate the necessity for brand new fighters much more pressing. In actual fact, as we recently reported, Iran may quickly obtain new Su-35S Flanker-E jets, in addition to unspecified air protection methods, missile methods and helicopters. The sale of the S-400 Triumf floor to air missile system has additionally been rumored for a very long time, however has by no means been confirmed to this point.
Stefano D’Urso is a contract journalist and contributor to TheAviationist based mostly in Lecce, Italy. A graduate in Industral Engineering he is additionally finding out to attain a Grasp Diploma in Aerospace Engineering. Digital Warfare, Loitering Munitions and OSINT methods utilized to the world of navy operations and present conflicts are amongst his areas of experience.
