F-15EX is the most advanced Eagle variant based on the F-15QA as a replacement for the legacy F-15C/D.
The Eagle II is the first USAF F-15 to boast digital fly-by-wire flight controls, LAD glass-cockpit with touchscreen interface, and incorporate APG-82 AESA radar, Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS), and EPAWSS self-defensive suite from the outset. The aircraft pioneers Open Mission System (OMS) software to enable rapid upgrades and capability enhancement, as well as the latest Suite 9.1 software in common with upgraded legacy aircraft.
F-15EX promises higher speed, longer range, increased 29,500 lb payload (including two additional weapon stations), and lower operating costs than previous variants. The type also boasts the longest stand-off air-to-air engagement range of any fighter in the USAF inventory. Due to insufficient F-22 procurement, the F-15C/D fleet has continued flying beyond its designed service life, posing a serious risk of structural failure. Similar infrastructure, support, and training requirements will permit existing F-15 units to quickly transition to the F-15EX.
The F-15EX incorporates two seats enabling future crew/mission expansion. FY23 efforts focus on integrating F-15EX-unique software into the common F-15 Operational Flight Program build, ramping up production capability, and continuing capability enhancement. USAF awarded Boeing a $1.2 billion contract for the first eight new-build F-15EX on July 13, 2020.
FY21 and FY22 each funded 12 airframes plus a congressional add of five aircraft last year. FY23 funds 24 airframes to speed phase-out of the F15C/D, though the Air Force now plans to purchase 104 aircraft rather than the originally planned 144. The first aircraft delivered to Eglin on March 11, 2021, supports AFMC developmental testing while the second delivered April 20, 2021, is assigned to ACC for operational testing.
The next six jets are slated for delivery in 2023, followed by upward of 76 over the next five years. Combined developmental and operational testing is ongoing, and the type flew its first operational test sortie from Nellis in October 2021. An F-15EX fired a live missile for the first time on Jan. 25, 2022, launching a pair of AIM-120s over the Eglin range.
Leave a comment