USAF expands role of Boeing's versatile F-15EX Eagle II fighter

The F-15EX can operate with either a single pilot or a weapon systems officer in the rear cockpit, enhancing its suitability for complex long-range strike missions and potential future roles such as controlling uncrewed collaborative combat aircraft.

Comparable to Qatar’s F-15QA model displayed at Farnborough by Boeing test pilots en route to Qatar for delivery, the USAF’s Eagle IIs currently lack conformal fuel tanks but could be equipped with them if required.

Equipped with RTX’s APG-82(V)1 AESA radar and BAE Systems ALQ-250 EPAWSS electronic warfare suite, which provides comprehensive protection, the F-15EX has proven its air-to-air performance capabilities. On April 13, retrofitted F-15Es successfully engaged and neutralized over 70 Shahed drones during an Iranian attack on Israel.

Powered by GE Aerospace’s F110-GE-129 engine—standard across recent Advanced Eagle variants—the F-15EX has also attracted interest from potential customers like Israel and Japan. Indonesia signed an agreement last August for 24 Eagle IIs after receiving state department export approval. Poland is also considering it as an addition to its existing fleet of F-16s and F-35s.

Boeing continues to receive inquiries about alternative powerplant options such as Pratt & Whitney's engines; however, integrating these would require additional testing and software modifications.