7 key features of F-15 fighter jets that Israel has decided to buy from US for $5.2 bn

Israel’s defence ministry said Thursday it had signed a $5.2 billion agreement with Boeing to purchase 25 “next generation” F-15 fighter jets, financed by US military aid.

The deal includes an option for 25 more aircraft, with deliveries to start in 2031 in batches of four to six jets annually, the ministry said in a statement.

“This F-15 squadron, alongside the third F-35 squadron procured earlier this year, represents a historic enhancement of our air power and strategic reach – capabilities that proved crucial during the current war,” defence ministry director general Eyal Zamir said in a statement.

Here’s a look at seven things to know about the F-15 fighter jet:

High thrust-to-weight ratio and low wing-loading: A key to the F-15’s agility is its high thrust-to-weight ratio combined with low wing-loading. This combination allows the F-15 to turn tightly without losing speed, an essential advantage for rapid changes in direction to evade or pursue enemy aircraft.

Advanced multi-mission avionics system: The F-15’s avionics (aviation electronics) systems such as a head-up display, inertial navigation, and tactical navigation provide essential information and navigation support. This integrated system enhances the F-15’s capacity to operate effectively in both friendly and hostile airspace.

Pulse-doppler radar: The F-15’s radar can detect and track aircraft at long ranges and small, high-speed targets down to close range, at high altitudes or near the ground. Its capability to distinguish between targets and ground clutter enhances targeting accuracy and situational awareness.

Versatile EWS: Equipped with threat warning and automatic countermeasures, the F-15’s electronic warfare system provides critical defensive capabilities against radar-guided threats. This system includes an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) capability.

Flexible weapon integration: The F-15 can carry a variety of air-to-air missiles, including AIM-120 AMRAAMs and AIM-9 Sidewinders, allowing it to engage targets at both medium and close ranges. The integrated weapon system lets the pilot switch easily between weapons with visual guidance on the head-up display, simplifying aerial combat.

Internal 20mm gatling gun: For close-quarters combat, the F-15 is equipped with a 20mm M61 Vulcan Gatling gun in the right wing root, providing high-rate firepower for close-range engagements when missiles may not be optimal.

Proven combat legacy and evolution: Since its first flight in 1972, the F-15 has been continuously upgraded to meet modern threats. Israel’s order for next-generation F-15 jets highlights the platform’s continued relevance and adaptability.