Boeing is ready to increase production of modernised F-15EX Eagle II fighters if foreign demand increases
Boeing plans to deliver six F-15 EX Eagle II fighters to the US Air Force by the end of the first quarter. The company is also preparing to increase production of the aircraft in case of demand from foreign customers.
Here's What We Know
Boeing will evaluate its portfolio of deliveries to make a decision on whether to increase production of the F-15EX Eagle II. This was announced by Mark Sears, the company's vice president of fighter aircraft.
The US Air Force initially wanted to buy 144 F-15EX Eagle II aircraft, but then trimmed the plan to 80 units. Over time, the service decided to increase the order to 104 fighters. In addition, the purchase of an additional six more platforms has not been ruled out. The cost of the F-15EX in the first batches will average between $90 million and $97 million.
The US Air Force's current programme envisages the acquisition of fighter jets until fiscal year 2028. Indonesia has shown interest in the F-15EX Eagle II. In addition, Boeing wants to sell modernised aircraft to Poland, which is actively strengthening its army.
The company will assess the need to increase production, taking into account the US Air Force's behaviour and customers' desires regarding the timing of receiving the F-15EX. For now, Boeing is aiming to reach its planned pace of building two aircraft per month by 2025.
Source: Breaking Defence