The need to introduce a new-generation air superiority fighter into service with the Chel Ha'Avir (Israeli Air Force, or IAF) was already understood before the 1973 Yom Kippur War. One reason for Israeli concern was the appearance of four Soviet MiG-25R Foxbat Mach 3-plus reconnaissance aircraft on the airport at Cairo West in March 1971. The Foxbats carried out operational recce missions over Israel, uselessly pursued by Chel Ha'Avir F-4E Phantoms. Israel had to abandon the idea of adopting the F-4X Phantom project when the United States dropped the programme in August 1972 and, as a result, sent a delegation to the US to gather information on two new American fighters, the F-14 Tomcat and the F-15 Eagle.
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