Pentagon Chief Reverses Stance, Supports Acquisition of Boeing E-7 Wedgetail for US Air Force
In a significant policy reversal, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced support for the acquisition of the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail, an airborne early warning and control aircraft, for the U.S. Air Force. This decision marks a departure from previous positions held by both Hegseth and the USAF's civilian secretary, who had argued against the E-7, citing vulnerabilities in modern combat. The Trump Administration now plans to request additional funds to advance the E-7 program, which has already seen the development of two prototype aircraft. This move comes as the U.S. seeks to replace its aging fleet of E-3 Sentry aircraft, which have been deemed increasingly vulnerable. 
