Story perspectives

Pentagon Confirms $8.6B Deal for Israel's F-15IA Jets

1/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Pentagon confirmed Boeing's $8.6 billion contract to build 25 F-15IA jets for Israel, with option for 25 more, deliveries by 2035, and production in St. Louis.
Deliveries are planned by 2035, and production is in St. Louis.
The announcement followed a Florida meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The F-15IA will replace Israel's aging F-15I Ra’am fleet.
Trump praised Netanyahu's leadership, emphasizing Israel's commitment to a peace plan and downplaying Gaza concerns.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. has a long history of military support for Israel, highlighted by a 2018 arms deal allowing Israel to purchase F-35 jets valued at $110 billion over ten years. This commitment continued with a recent $8.6 billion contract for F-15IA jets, reflecting ongoing U.S. efforts to bolster Israel's defense amid regional tensions and maintain stability in the Middle East.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Pentagon confirmed Boeing's $8.6 billion contract to build 25 F-15IA jets for Israel, with option for 25 more, deliveries by 2035, and production in St. Louis.
Deliveries are planned by 2035, and production is in St. Louis.
The announcement followed a Florida meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The F-15IA will replace Israel's aging F-15I Ra’am fleet.
Trump praised Netanyahu's leadership, emphasizing Israel's commitment to a peace plan and downplaying Gaza concerns.

1 / 2