Boeing to Enhance F-15EX Fighter Jet with Cutting-Edge Electronic Warfare Technologies from EA-18G Growler Aircraft.

At the Farnborough Air Show 2024, Boeing announced its plans to equip its F-15EX fighter jet with advanced electronic warfare technologies inspired by those of the E/A-18G Growler. This initiative could redefine the aircraft's capabilities in modern conflicts, where mastery of the electromagnetic spectrum is crucial.
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Boeing FA-15EX Fighter Jet (Picture source: Boeing)

Rob Novotny, Boeing's Executive Director for Fighter Business Development, shared that this study aims to adapt the F-15EX to respond to rapid advancements in detection technologies and air defense systems, especially against stealth aircraft such as the F-22 and F-35. "We are evaluating the technical feasibility of combining EA-18G-like capabilities with the F-15EX platform," explained Novotny. This move comes as production of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is scheduled to end in 2027, thereby also concluding the production of the E/A-18G Growler.

The F-15EX, dubbed Eagle II, is already renowned for its sophisticated electronic warfare systems, including the Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) which provides advanced jamming and countermeasure capabilities. With the potential integration of Growler technologies, the F-15EX could become the natural successor to this aircraft specialized in electronic warfare.

The implications of this integration are significant. The enhanced F-15EX could not only perform traditional air superiority roles but also conduct missions to suppress and destroy enemy air defenses (SEAD/DEAD). "Modern aerial combat demands command of the electromagnetic spectrum, and this platform would lead the way into the next decade or two," added Novotny.

However, it is important to note that the F-15EX, unlike the Growler, does not have a naval variant, which makes it unsuitable for operations from the deck of an aircraft carrier. This could limit some tactical applications of the aircraft, particularly in U.S. Navy operations.

Boeing's study on this potential evolution of the F-15EX is still in its early stages, but initial indications suggest a real ambition to push the boundaries of electronic warfare technology and enhance the operational capabilities of the NATO air fleet and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

The F-15EX is a modernized variant of the F-15 Eagle, a multi-role fighter aircraft originally developed by McDonnell Douglas, now part of Boeing. It is designed to replace the aging F-15C/D aircraft in the U.S. Air Force's fleet, providing a more advanced and cost-effective solution to maintain air superiority and fulfill various mission roles, including air-to-air and air-to-ground operations.

The F-15EX features advanced avionics, such as a new digital cockpit, modern radar systems, and improved electronic warfare systems. These upgrades enhance its capabilities significantly, allowing for greater situational awareness and more effective combat performance. Additionally, the F-15EX boasts an increased weapons payload capacity, capable of carrying more and larger munitions compared to previous F-15 models.

Maintaining the high-speed performance of its predecessors, the F-15EX can reach a top speed of approximately Mach 2.5. Its range is also extended due to the inclusion of conformal fuel tanks and other design improvements, making it a versatile and powerful asset for the U.S. Air Force.

The F-15EX offers significant advancements over previous versions, including modern avionics with a new digital cockpit, enhanced radar systems, and improved electronic warfare capabilities. It has an increased weapons payload capacity, allowing it to carry more and larger munitions. Additionally, the F-15EX maintains high-speed performance with a top speed of Mach 2.5 and features an extended range due to conformal fuel tanks and other design improvements, making it a more versatile and powerful aircraft for the U.S. Air Force.