What You Need to Know: The F-15I Ra'am is a specialized variant of the American-made F-15 Eagle, operated by the Israeli Air Force (IAF). Introduced in the mid-1990s, the Ra'am is a dual-role fighter capable of air superiority and long-range strike missions.
-Equipped with advanced avionics like the Hughes APG-70 radar and Elbit display systems, it can operate effectively in all weather conditions. The aircraft carries a significant payload, including a 20mm internal cannon, AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, and up to 18,000 pounds of fuel and munitions.
-The Ra'am has been actively deployed in various conflicts along Israel's borders and beyond, including operations in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. Its extended range allows it to reach targets deep within adversarial territories, aligning with Israel's strategic defense doctrines.
In fact, the Israeli Air Force’s “Ra’am” (“Thunder”) fighters have greater range than the service’s F-35s and F-16s. As the Israeli-Hamas war continues to rage on in the aftermath of the October 7 massacre, the IAF’s aerial capabilities remain a top priority for Israel’s security and defense. The F-15I Ra’am fighters undoubtedly play a critical role in these efforts.
The first American-made F-15 Eagle took its maiden flight nearly four decades ago. When the McDonnell Douglas platform was first........