The U.S. Air Force announced a $1.2 billion contract award for Boeing to build the first lot of eight F-15EX advanced fighter jets. The jets will be built in the F-15 production facility at Boeing St. Louis and set for delivery to the Air Force next year.
“The F-15EX is ready to fight as soon as it comes off the line,” said Gen. Mike Holmes, Air Combat Command commander. “When delivered, we expect bases currently operating the F-15 to transition to the new EX platform in a matter of months versus years.”
Here’s some additional facts:
The F-15EX carries more weapons than any other fighter in its class, and can launch hypersonic weapons up to 22 feet long and weighing up to 7,000 pounds.
Pilots and mechanics currently operating the F-15 anticipate transitioning to the F-15EX in a matter of days.
Future plans call for as many as 144 aircraft.
The F-15EX avionics and software allows it to operate independently while isolated and reconnect to the global cloud when conditions permit.
Boeing St. Louis is Missouri’s largest manufacturer sustaining nearly 16,000 highly-skilled jobs in the region.