The DSCA has notified Congress that the Government of Israel wishes to contract for a fleet management program. This will cover U.S. Government and contractor management and logistics support of Israeli Air Force F-15 and F-16A/B Pratt and Whitney F-100 model engines, and accompanying spares, technical and logistics support, documentation and training. The estimated cost if all options are exercised is $600 million.
The Israel fleet management program for U. S. Government management and contractor sustainment support consists of spare parts forecasting, inventory management, and maintenance prioritization to ensure 95% flying hour capability for the existing Israeli Air Force (IAF) fleet of 202 Pratt and Whitney F-100 engines in support of both F-15 and F-16 fleet aircraft for a period of ten (10) years. Contractor support will include, but not be limited to, management, maintenance, support, overhaul, repair, testing, spare and repair parts, support equipment, engineering and technical support, training and other related elements of program support of F-100-PW-100DPI engines installed in IAF F-15 Fighter aircraft and F100-PW-200DPI engines installed in IAF F-16A/B fighter aircraft for a period of ten years.
These defense articles and services are requested to help Israel to maintain its qualitative edge by supporting its existing systems, promoting Israeli readiness and self-sufficiency, and standardizing weapon system operability with U.S. forces. Israel is the largest owner of F-16 aircraft outside the US Air Force, and has collaborated with the USA on elements of the aircraft’s ongoing development.
The prime contractor will be F100 engine manufacturer Pratt and Whitney of East Hartford, CT. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale, and implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 2 U.S. Government and 12 contractor representatives for 10 years to Israel.
* Defense Security Cooperation Agency (July 21/05) – Israel – Fleet Management Program [PDF document]