A Strategic Pivot: Why the U.S. Air Force is Betting Big on the F-15EX

The U.S. House of Representatives has backed a significant F-15EX fighter jet production boost while halting planned F-22 Raptor and F-15E Strike Eagle retirements.¹

This unexpected move comes as the U.S. Air Force grapples with the dual challenges of modernizing its fighter fleet and maintaining a robust air defense capability. The stakes couldn’t be higher as tensions simmer in various global hotspots and near-peer competitors continue to advance their aerospace capabilities.

But what’s driving this sudden shift in strategy, and how might it reshape the future of aerial warfare?

F-15EX: a Strategic Asset in Modern Air Warfare

The debate surrounding the F-15EX fighter jet has intensified in recent years, with proponents arguing for its strategic importance while critics question its relevance in an era of stealth technology. 

The F-15EX represents a significant upgrade to the venerable F-15 Eagle, incorporating advanced avionics, increased payload capacity, and improved survivability features. 

While it may lack the stealth capabilities of fifth-generation fighters like the F-35, the F-15EX offers several advantages that make it a valuable asset in the U.S. Air Force’s inventory:

• Payload Capacity: The F-15EX can carry a substantial weapons load, making it ideal for long-range strike missions and air-to-air combat scenarios requiring multiple engagements.
• Range and Endurance: With its large fuel capacity and efficient engines, the F-15EX can operate at extended ranges without relying heavily on aerial refueling.
• Rapid Integration: The F-15EX is an evolution of a proven platform that can be quickly integrated into existing squadrons, minimizing training and logistics challenges.
• Cost-Effectiveness: The F-15EX offers a lower cost per flight hour than stealth fighters, allowing for more frequent training and operational sorties.

Adapting to Strategic Competition

In strategic competition, the F-15EX’s versatility becomes particularly relevant. 

As military strategists shift their focus from preparing for high-intensity conflicts to maintaining a competitive edge in prolonged periods of tension, adaptability and cost-effectiveness gain importance. 

The F-15EX’s ability to carry diverse payloads and operate in various roles makes it a valuable tool for generating strategic options and complicating adversaries’ decision-making processes.

Embracing Tactical Ingenuity

One of the most compelling arguments for the F-15EX is its potential for adaptation. Throughout its service life, the F-15 platform has demonstrated remarkable flexibility, with operators finding innovative ways to employ the aircraft beyond its original design parameters. 

This “tactical ingenuity” has led to new capabilities and mission profiles that were not initially envisioned.

For example, the F-15E Strike Eagle, originally conceived as a dual-role fighter bomber, has evolved to perform diverse missions such as close air support, maritime strike, and even satellite interception. 

The F-15EX, with its advanced systems and increased payload capacity, offers even greater potential for creative employment by forward-thinking aircrews and strategists.

The Role of Adaptation in Strategic Competition

In strategic competition, the ability to rapidly adapt existing platforms to new roles and missions can be more valuable than pursuing cutting-edge technologies that may take years or decades to mature.

The F-15EX, as an evolution of a well-understood and battle-tested design, provides a canvas for such adaptation.

Consider the following potential adaptations for the F-15EX:

1. Stand-Off Jamming Platform: Leveraging its large payload capacity and advanced electronic warfare suite, the F-15EX could be configured as a potent stand-off jamming platform, complementing dedicated electronic warfare aircraft.
2. Missile Truck: Acting as a “missile truck” for stealth fighters, the F-15EX could carry additional long-range air-to-air or air-to-ground weapons, extending the reach and firepower of a mixed fighter formation.
3. Hypersonic Weapon Carrier: As hypersonic weapons continue to develop, the F-15EX’s robust airframe and significant payload capacity make it a potential candidate for air-launching these advanced missiles.
4. Unmanned Aircraft Control Node: With its advanced datalinks and processing power, the F-15EX could serve as a control node for swarms of unmanned combat aerial vehicles, extending its influence far beyond its physical presence.
5. High-Altitude ISR Platform: Equipped with advanced sensors and benefiting from its high operating altitude, the F-15EX could perform persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in contested airspace.

Source:

1. Defense News