Looks like our F-15 will be flying for many more years. Maybe one day we will be able to add missisles in the sim.
In a rare bit of good news for Boeing, the Department of the Air Force has awarded a contract for eight F-15EX multi-role fighters to be delivered starting in the first quarter of 2021. This part of the program is worth $1.2 billion but the U.S. Air Force plans to purchase 76 of the fighters over five years. The F-15EX will provide the military with an operational alternative for the F-35. Boeing is responsible for all key aspects of the program, from design through development, integration, manufacturing, testing, sustainment and modification. It’s also due to provide support equipment and training materials.
“The F-15EX is the most affordable and immediate way to refresh the capacity and update the capabilities provided by our aging F-15C/D fleets,” said Gen. Mike Holmes, commander of Air Combat Command. “The F-15EX is ready to fight as soon as it comes off the line. When delivered, we expect bases currently operating the F-15 to transition to the new EX platform in a matter of months versus years.”
“The F-15EX is the most advanced version of the F-15 ever built, due in large part to its digital backbone,” said Lori Schneider, Boeing F-15EX program manager. “Its unmatched range, price and best-in-class payload capacity make the F-15EX an attractive choice for the U.S. Air Force.