The quote I posted from prime clerk at the top of the page says United will "lease certain" the ordered airframes to Republic. I don't claim to be a lawyer or fully understand the lingo but it makes it sound like they are buying them specifically for us to operate. You are correct the number is redacted, but a few other sources have confirmed the number of 24. I can agree to disagree if you read it differently, sounds like there should be an official announcement soon anyways.

On another note, I saw United has delayed delivery of 737's due to this purchase. I think we can all agree the move is not good for the industry as a whole, even if we see short term gains at Republic.