Boeing and Saudi Arabia: Upgrading the F-15 fleet and localizing defense industries
The American aerospace company Boeing affirmed its firm commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through joint work on modernizing and developing the Royal Saudi Air Force’s F-15 aircraft fleet, in addition to accelerating steps to localize defense industries in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives.
Upgrading the Kingdom's air capabilities
The company works closely with relevant authorities in the Kingdom to ensure the F-15 fleet remains at the highest levels of combat and technological readiness. Saudi Arabia is one of the largest operators of these aircraft outside the United States, and this fleet forms the backbone of the Royal Saudi Air Force. Modernization efforts include integrating the latest electronic systems, upgrading sensors, and enhancing weapons capabilities, ensuring continued air superiority and strengthening the Kingdom's ability to protect its airspace and strategic interests in the region.
Supporting Vision 2030 and localizing industries
In a related context, Boeing emphasized that its goal extends beyond simply selling or maintaining equipment; it aims to deepen the localization of defense capabilities. This approach aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030. The company contributes to this goal through technology transfer, training Saudi nationals, and establishing local supply chains capable of manufacturing spare parts and providing advanced maintenance services within the Kingdom, thereby reducing reliance on foreign sources and strengthening the national economy.
A historic partnership and strategic dimensions
It is worth noting that the relationship between Boeing and Saudi Arabia spans more than seven decades, beginning with the delivery of the first civilian aircraft to the Kingdom and evolving into deep defense and space partnerships. This collaboration in modernizing the F-15 fleet carries significant strategic implications both regionally and internationally, reflecting the strength of the defense alliance and contributing to enhanced security and stability in the Middle East by bolstering the Kingdom's military deterrent capabilities.
