U.S. continues production of upgraded F-15E

WASHINGTON — In a decision expected to affect U.S. allies in the Middle East, the U.S. military has agreed to continue production of the F-15E fighter-jet.

Officials said the U.S. Air Force has completed terms of a contract for the production of 10 F-15E aircraft. The contract would ensure production of the warplane through 2004.

The resumption of F-15E production will include new subsystems and upgrades. The contract for the 10 aircraft is valued at $571 million.

The U.S. Air Force agreed for the resumption of production of the F-15E amid delays and cost overruns of the F-22, meant to replace the Boeing fighter-jet. Many in Congress have deemed the F-22 as too costly.

U.S. allies of the Middle East have closely followed the U.S. Air Force contract with Boeing. Israel and Saudi Arabia have F-15E fleets and have expressed interest in additional sales.

Israel has discussed with the Pentagon the prospect of purchasing an additional six F-15E fighter-jets. The fighter-jets would be modified to a configuration similar to that of the F-15I delivered to Israel in 1999.

Boeing executives said the F-15E planned for US. production would undergo an upgrade of the jet's weapons systems. This would allow the fighter to employ the Joint Direct Attack Munition, Joint Standoff Weapon and Wind Corrected Munition Dispenser. The aircraft will also receive enhanced night-vision capability and three new active-matrix liquid crystal displays.