The F-15EX is a new fighter jet expected to offer the Defense Department a competitive option to Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
The Defense Department plans to spend $1.2 billion for eight Boeing-developed F-15EX fighter jets over the next three years, the company and the Air Force announced Monday, a contract that will provide a much-needed boost to the embattled aerospace manufacturer at a time when the market for commercial aircraft remains in a state of turmoil.
Under the terms of the deal, Boeing will build a new version of its F-15, an older fighter jet developed in the 1960s, with new automated flight controls and electronic warfare capabilities. The newer model, known as the F-15EX, will be designed to carry heavier weaponry than smaller, stealthier jets like the F-35.
A Boeing news release published Monday boasted that engineers would be able to adapt from older F-15 jets to the new F-15EX in a matter of days. Its larger payload capacity will allow it to carry hypersonic weapons, a major recent priority for the Defense Department. “We listened to our customer every step of the way when developing this exciting jet,” said Prat Kumar, Boeing vice president and F-15 program manager. “What we will soon deliver is a modern and robust aircraft that supports our nation’s defense by incorporating the latest systems, sensors and weapons.”
Although a purchase of this size was expected based on the Defense Department’s recent budget requests, it nonetheless comes as a massive win for Boeing at a time of historic vulnerability.Boeing’s commercial aircraft division, once a cash-generating machine that enabled the company to underbid its rivals on major defense competitions, has lost billions due to equipment flaws in its signature 737 Max jet.
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