The first modernised F-15EX Eagle II fighter in its final configuration has made its debut flight

Boeing is preparing to deliver the first F-15EX Eagle II fighter in its final configuration. The aircraft recently made its debut flight.

Here's What We Know

US Air Force and Boeing experts are studying data obtained during operational tests of the F-15EX Eagle II fighter. The information will make it possible to decide on the phase of full-scale production. This is expected to be done by the end of this year.

The US Air Force has two F-15EX Eagle II test fighters. They are based on aircraft for the Royal Bahrain Air Force. Boeing plans to deliver the first six fighters in final configuration to the customer by the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2024. Four of them will go to Florida and two more to Oregon.

The F-15EX is an important but, expensive programme for the US Air Force. It was recently revealed that the average cost per aircraft in the first batch will be $90 million, meaning it will be $7.5 million more expensive than the F-35A Lightning II.

The upgraded fighter has already demonstrated the ability to carry three JASSM missiles and a dozen AMRAAM missiles. In addition, the F-15EX aircraft may become carriers of hypersonic weapons in the future.

Initially, the US Air Force wanted to buy 144 aircraft. Later the plan was cut down to 80 units. Now the military service plans to buy 104 fighters. It is possible that this figure will change in one direction or another.

Source: The Aviationist