Pentagon's FY2027 Budget Boosts Boeing's F-15EX Production to Full Rate
The U.S. Air Force has proposed a significant increase in the procurement of F-15EX Eagle II fighters from Boeing, as outlined in the Pentagon's fiscal year 2027 budget request. This proposal aims to more than double the planned acquisition of these strike fighters to 268 units, facilitating Boeing's transition to full-rate production. The budget request includes the purchase of 24 F-15EX jets annually in 2027 and 2028, aligning with Boeing's goal of producing two aircraft per month. This expansion comes after a period of fluctuating acquisition plans, where the Air Force initially reduced its procurement target from 144 to 80 aircraft, before revising it to 104. The F-15EX jets are equipped with the BAE Systems Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS), enhancing their defense capabilities against modern air threats. Additionally, Boeing has secured a contract with Israel for 25 F-15s, with options for 25 more, valued at up to $8.6 billion.