Amidst the whirlwind of geopolitical developments and military advancements, the recent $17 billion military aid package to Israel, potentially including the procurement of additional F-15EX Eagle II jets, has sparked debate over the strategic necessity and implications of such a move.
The F-15EX Eagle II, a formidable 4.5th generation multirole fighter, boasts an impressive payload capacity and speed, though it lacks the stealth capabilities of the F-22 Raptor or the F-35 Lightning II. Israel, with its already robust air force, comprising F-35I stealth jets and the Iron Dome defense system, seems to have little critical need for more F-15EX jets, fueling discussions about the effective allocation of resources within the U.S. military.
Israel’s current fleet of F-15 variants, including around 65 aircraft, would enable a seamless transition to the F-15EX Eagle II. However, the fundamental question remains: Does Israel really need the F-15EX Eagle II? Considering Israel’s demonstrated air superiority capabilities in the Middle East, the additional acquisition might appear as an excessive boost to Tel Aviv’s already substantial aerial warfare arsenal.
Scrutiny over Israel’s intentions with the new jets arises following its strike on the Iranian Embassy in Syria, with reports suggesting the F-15EX could enhance Israel’s ability to conduct deep strike operations in contested air environments.
The F-15EX’s impressive combat range nearly enables Israeli aircraft to strike deep into Iranian territory, an aspect that could be pivotal should Israel decide to target key Iranian facilities.
Meanwhile, the performance of the F-15E Strike Eagle in defending Israel against Iranian missile and drone barrages has underscored the value of the F-15 series. The F-15E’s role in shooting down more than 70 Iranian drones, with commanders expressing the desire for more of these jets even before they enter operational service, stands as a testament to their defensive prowess.
The F-15EX, capable of carrying a hefty load of 12 AIM-120 AMRAAMs and equipped with the most powerful fighter AESA radar, promises to enhance these capabilities further. Its ability to carry an extensive arsenal and its advanced networking capabilities make it an attractive option for countering drone and cruise missile threats.
Israel has already ordered 25 F-15EX Eagle II (they would be named F-15IA once in Israeli service) and is looking to double the order, are indicative of the strategic weight this aircraft holds.
Relevant articles:
– F-15EX Eagle II Fighter: Does Israel Really Need This New ‘Bomb Truck’?, The National Interest
– Why Does Israel Need F-15EX Fighters?, Geopolitical Monitor
– F-15E Strike Eagle’s Defense Of Israel Bolsters The Case For F-15EX, The War Zone
– 15EX Eagle II for Israel? – MILMAG, MILMAG