Boeing has rolled out the F-15SA, the newest variant of the combat-proven F-15, providing improved performance and increased survivability at a lower life-cycle cost for Royal Saudi Air Force.

The aircraft has two additional wing stations for increased payload and capability.

“We look forward to receiving the advanced capabilities of the F-15SA aircraft to continue to protect the security and stability of Saudi Arabia,” said Lt Gen Mohammed Bin Abdullah Al-Ayeesh, commander Royal Saudi Air Force.

“Our relationship with the US Air Force and The Boeing Company has helped to ensure the Royal Saudi Air Force remains among the best equipped air forces in the world.”

Flight testing began this year on the F-15SA. The Royal Saudi Air Force has operated F-15S fighters since the 1990s.

“Boeing’s 65-year relationship with Saudi Arabia is multidimensional,” said Ahmed Jazzar, president of Boeing Saudi Arabia. “We provide the Kingdom with top products and services that meet its requirements, in addition to the strategic and collaborative partnerships that help the Kingdom achieve its long-term educational and industrial development goals.”

Boeing established many of the offset companies in Saudi Arabia, including Alsalam Aircraft Company, in which Boeing currently holds the largest stake. Boeing also co-founded Alfaisal University, the first private university in Saudi Arabia, as well as the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Industrial Collaboration Program.

Boeing is also developing educational and training projects with the King Abdulaziz City for Science & Technology and the Technical & Vocational Training Corporation.

"The F-15SA will enhance the national security objectives of both the US and the Kingdom with improved interoperability and common training and support well into the 21st century," said Lt Gen C D Moore, the US Air Force’s decision authority for the F-15SA program. – TradeArabia News Service