Delivery of F-15Is to Israel a 'milestone'
by Capt. Wilson T. Sims
F-15 System Program Office

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. (AFNS) -- Reaching a "major milestone" in the
relationship between Israel and the U.S., the Israeli Air Force received
the first two of 25 F-15I aircraft amid much celebration and fanfare
this week.

The F-15I, like the U.S. Air Force's F-15E Strike Eagle, is a dual-role
fighter that combines long-range interdiction with the Eagle's "proven
air superiority capabilities," according to Col. Scott Britten, F-15
Systems Program Office director.

The two-seat F-15I, known as the "Thunder" in Israel, incorporates new
and unique weapons, avionics and communications packages that make it
one of the most advanced F-15s ever.

Preparations for aircraft delivery began in January 1994, when Israel
selected the F-15I after evaluating a variety of aircraft to meet its
defense needs.  "This foreign military sale is valued at $1.8 billion
dollars," said Britten.

"The air logistics center here will provide the technical expertise and
critical logistics support necessary to sustain this weapons system for
years to come," Britten said.  "Israel's selection of this aircraft to
help meet their defense needs says a lot about the people who work this
program -- from the parts buyers to the back shops making repairs.

"I have tremendous admiration for the people who make this quality
operation happen on a daily basis," said Britten.  "This aircraft buy
represents a major milestone in cooperation between the U.S. government
and the government of Israel, strengthening the defense posture of our
allies."

The Warner Robins Air Logistics Center is the system program office for
F-15 aircraft.  (Courtesy of Warner Robins Air Logistics Center Public
Affairs)