F-15EX Fighter Jet: Boeing Prepares for Lot 2 Delivery
**Boeing is gearing up for the delivery of Lot 2 orders for the F-15EX fighter jet, the latest upgrade of the iconic F-15 series, to the U.S. Air Force. In a recent interview conducted by TWZ, Robert Novotny, Boeing’s F-15EX Business Development General Manager, provided insights into the performance of the Eagle II, which has garnered praise in the annual report from the Directorate of Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E).** Novotny confirmed that Boeing is on track to hand over the Lot 2 aircraft to the U.S. Air Force, with the first of these aircraft, tail number “9,” successfully completing its maiden flight in early March.
The schedule for the F-15EX Eagle II is specific, with tail number 008 set to depart from Portland Air National Guard Base on July 12, 2024. The Lot 1A and 1B deliveries, which started with the inaugural fighter jet in 2021, were completed in June 2024. From this batch, six aircraft were designated for developmental testing at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, while two were sent to Oregon’s 142nd Wing of the Air National Guard, which is poised to become the first operational unit for these advanced jets.
In the same interview, Novotny noted that several F-15EX aircraft took part in the recent Bamboo Eagle exercise near the California coast. This exercise is strategically designed to enhance readiness among U.S. forces and allied nations for potential conflict in the Pacific, particularly concerning tensions with China. The F-15EX is expected to play a crucial role if hostilities arise in this vital region.
Innovation remains a key aspect of the F-15EX’s appeal. Novotny highlighted the jet’s ability to operate in conjunction with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), its armament capacity, and the sophisticated AN/ALQ-250 EPAWSS electronic warfare system. This system is now standard in all F-15EXs delivered to the U.S. Air Force and has been retrofitted into several legacy F-15s.
Looking to the future, the interview also revealed plans for the addition of an infrared search and tracking (IRST) system to the F-15EX, along with a new decoy system aimed at diverting missile threats. Furthermore, Boeing is researching smart expendables, which could enhance the aircraft’s survivability and tactical options.
Regarding its operational status, the F-15EX fighter jet has achieved its initial operational capability, marking a significant milestone in its development and readiness for deployment.
