The US Air Force has awarded Boeing a nearly $1,2 billion contract to build the first batch of eight F-15EX fighters. The new aircraft is expected to arrive with significant upgrades, which place the F-15 in the 4++ generation field.
Manufacturing of the new aircraft will take place in St. Louis, and the first two units will be delivered in 2021. Boeing is also expected to provide and components for the F-15EX under this contract.
The US Air Force also announced an overall Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity contract with a maximum value of nearly $23 billion for the F-15EX.
Namely, the USAF is committing to a $23 billion order for the F-15EX. Future plans call for 144 F-15EX aircraft.
“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 unrivaled range, price and best-in-class payload capacity make the F-15EX a compelling choice for the US Air Force.”
According to Boeing, the F-15EX is capable of carrying more weapons than any other 4++ generation fighter. For this reason, the F-15EX was chosen by the USAF to work alongside the F-35 and F-22 in a mass attack.
The F-15EX can launch hypersonic missiles up to 6 meters long and weighing up to 3200 kg.
