Saudis express interest in F-15 upgrades

RIYAD, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in upgrading its F-15 fleet, raising the issue with the United States and the Boeing Co., the plane's manufacturer.

Middle East Newsline reported Wednesday the kingdom has not yet entered into any formal negotiations. In 1981, Saudi Arabia purchased 91 F-15C/D fighter-jets from the United States. About 80 of the aircraft remain in service.

MENL said Riyad wants to improve the avionics and weapons systems on the F-15C/D aircraft. Sources said the upgrade would not include either the engine or the structure of the aircraft.