On December 29, 2025, the Pentagon announced an $8.6 billion contract with Boeing Defense Systems to design, integrate, instrument, test, produce, and deliver 25 F-15IA jets for the Israeli Air Force, with an option for 25 more. The work will be performed in St. Louis, Missouri, and is expected to run through 2035. Although the official value is $8.6 billion, some outlets reported an $11 billion figure in early coverage of the deal, reflecting estimates that include potential follow-on orders and options.
The F-15IA is a variant of the F-15 fighter tailored for Israel, featuring advanced avionics, sensors, and weapons systems designed to meet Israel’s air-defense needs in a complex regional environment. The contract reinforces the long-standing U.S.–Israel foreign military sales relationship and supports Israel’s modernization of its air capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions.
The announcement comes amid broader U.S. politics surrounding support for Israel. Reports describe a Florida meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underscoring the United States’ role as Israel’s top arms supplier. Domestic protests in the United States over military aid to Israel persisted as the contract proceeded.
Construction and production will take place primarily in the United States, with final assembly and integration conducted in Boeing’s facilities. The program is expected to be completed by 2035, strengthening Israel’s air-combat capabilities for the coming decade and beyond. The option for an additional 25 aircraft provides the Israeli Air Force with a pathway to further enhancement should political and strategic conditions require it.