Through a recent post on its social media, Boeing provided an update on the latest progress regarding the delivery of the first of the new F-15EX Eagle II fighters to the United States Air Force (USAF), corresponding to Production Lot 2. A few days ago, representatives of the American aerospace company confirmed that they were preparing to begin the delivery schedule for new aircraft, continuing the process recorded over the past months.
In its efforts to replace the aging F-15C Eagle fighters, the United States Air Force plans to acquire a total of up to 104 new F-15EX Eagle IIs. While this order represents a significant number for the institution, it falls short of the original plan, which aimed to incorporate 144 units, but exceeds the 80 initially ordered.
As of today, and as various reports have indicated, the United States Air Force already has a total of eight (8) units of the new aircraft, corresponding to Lots 1A and 1B, delivered by Boeing throughout 2024. As we previously reported, six of these F-15EXs were assigned to the 142nd Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard (ANG).
With this background, on the afternoon of March 17, Boeing released an official video showcasing the beginning of test flights and evaluations of the aircraft designated as “EX09,” the first unit of Production Lot 2 of the new F-15EXs. While no further details were provided, the company indicated that the combat aircraft will soon be sent to the painting facility, where it will receive the characteristic scheme seen on previously delivered aircraft.
It is likely that, following the statements made a few days ago by F-15EX Executive Director Robert Novotny, the aircraft will undergo several additional test flights before its delivery to the U.S. Air Force is confirmed. Finally, the footage released yesterday does not clarify whether “EX09” will be accompanied by another aircraft in a similar state of completion and finalization.
Cover photo used for illustration purposes.
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