Boeing’s F-15EX Eagle II has demonstrated significant multirole capabilities, prompting a re-evaluation of its mission set within the U.S. Air Force. Initially intended for homeland defense missions with the Air National Guard, the aircraft is now also slated for deployment in active-duty squadrons.
Following a delivery gap, six aircraft have joined the combined operational and developmental test fleet at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. Boeing delivered the first aircraft to the 123rd Fighter Squadron “Redhawks” of the Air National Guard in Portland, Oregon, on June 5, followed by a second unit in early July.
The Air Force had planned most F-15EX deliveries for homeland defense missions within the Air National Guard, operating primarily as single-pilot units. However, recent developments have shifted these plans due to the aircraft's enhanced multirole capability. The next units will be assigned to two active-duty squadrons within the 18th Wing at Kadena on Okinawa.