US Air Force to Acquire 149 F-15EX Jets by 2031

The United States Air Force is significantly increasing its procurement of F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets, with plans to operate a fleet of 149 aircraft by fiscal year 2031. This strategic move, detailed in budget proposals, extends production of the advanced fighter through FY2031 and aims to enhance the service's long-range strike capabilities and missile-carrying capacity.

Budgetary plans for FY2027 allocate $2.66 billion for the purchase of 24 F-15EX jets, signaling a shift from the aircraft's initial role as a transitional replacement for older F-15C/D models to a core component of future tactical aviation. The F-15EX is equipped with twin F110-GE-129 engines, digital flight controls, modern avionics, and an EPAWSS electronic warfare system, all integrated within an open mission systems architecture.

A key advantage of the F-15EX is its substantial payload capacity, capable of carrying approximately 13,300 kilograms, including up to 12 AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles. This significantly exceeds the missile loadout of stealth fighters that rely on internal weapon bays. The F-15EX can also be armed with long-range strike weapons and larger, next-generation munitions.

Recent deployments, including testing at Kadena Air Base in Japan, are laying the groundwork for future long-term missions. The Air Force envisions a complementary combat air system where F-35s handle penetration missions, future sixth-generation fighters and optionally manned platforms manage air superiority and unmanned capabilities, and the F-15EX provides robust weapons carriage and proven combat power.