From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Gallant thanks Austin, Blinken for approving sale of F-15s to Israel
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleEmanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant thanks US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken for approving the sale of F-15IA fighter jets and other equipment to Israel.
“Thank you to Secretary of Defense Austin and Secretary of State Blinken for advancing critical force buildup initiatives that assist Israel in developing and maintaining its qualitative military edge in the region. This includes incorporating F-15IAs into the IAF fleet of fighter aircraft, and providing critical munition to ensure Israel’s capabilities and security,” Gallant says on X.
“As we fight to defend Israel on 7 different fronts, your message of support and commitment to Israel’s security are clear,” he adds.
The $18.82 billion sale includes 50 F-15IA fighter jets — the Israeli variant of the advanced F-15EX — and kits for the Israeli Air Force’s existing F-15 aircraft, along with other equipment.
The deliveries are expected to begin in 2029.
Last year, Israel submitted a formal request to the US regarding the procurement of 25 F-15IA fighter jets, with options for 25 more.
Thank you to @SecDef Austin and @SecBlinken for advancing critical force buildup initiatives that assist Israel in developing and maintaining its qualitative military edge in the region. This includes incorporating F-15IAs into the IAF fleet of fighter aircraft, and providing… pic.twitter.com/fUR1pKhERN
— יואב גלנט – Yoav Gallant (@yoavgallant) August 13, 2024
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