http://www.worldtribune.com/worldtri...0587_06_29.asp
Saudi king to press Obama for advanced F-15s to counter 'Iranian threat'
WASHINGTON — Saudi Arabia has submitted an urgent request for advanced F-15 fighter-jets from the United States
Officials said the Saudi request would be discussed during King Abdullah's meeting with President Barack Obama on June 29. They said the 86-year-old king was expected to sign an agreement in principle to purchase the F-15s in a deal estimated at nearly $10 billion.
Officials said the Saudi royal family has relayed a request for 72 F-15s, manufactured by Boeing. They said the F-15s would comprise the most advanced models, including stealth platforms.
"This has been high on the Saudi agenda," an official said. "The Saudis want these planes quickly."
"The deal would also include Saudi financing of a stealth F-15," the official said. "Right now, the U.S. Air Force is not interested in such a plane."
Officials said Abdullah has demanded the rapid implementation of U.S. weapons deals. They acknowledged that the Defense Department, amid the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, has been mired in huge delays regarding the delivery of more than $10 billion in Saudi weapons orders.
"The Saudis want to buy [American warplanes], but they won't tolerate delays," the official said. "They have reminded us that they could turn to Europe and get advanced aircraft within three years of a contract.
Saudis want F-15 Silent Eagle badly and is willing to finance its development so that they could get the first plane within 3 years.
"Saudis want F-15 Silent Eagle badly and is willing to finance its development so that they could get the first plane within 3 years." so i guessing they are getting ready for when the SHTF, experts say iran could possibly have a nuke in 3-5 years which is why they want them with in the next 3 years
