The US Air Force has significantly increased the size of its F-15EX fleet to 267 aircraft.
The U.S. Air Force plans to increase its total order for F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets to 267, double the original plan, in order to modernize its combat force.
The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has just announced an ambitious procurement plan for a total of 267 F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets over the coming years. This number is more than double the initial estimate of 129 aircraft, marking a significant shift in the U.S. military's armament strategy to maintain air superiority.
Budget plan and procurement roadmap
According to a report from Breaking Defense, the Pentagon has released the USAF's budget for fiscal year 2027, which includes funding for the purchase of 24 F-15EX aircraft. In the following years, the USAF plans to order dozens more to complete the formation of new F-15EX combat units and begin the process of replacing its aging F-15E fleet.
The USAF's total budget for fiscal year 2027 is projected to reach $267.7 billion, an increase of approximately 25% compared to 2026. This includes a 30% increase in direct procurement spending and a 27% increase in research and development (R&D). Despite the significant expansion of the program, Boeing, the manufacturer of the F-15, has declined to comment in detail on its ability to meet production deadlines.
Strategic shifts between the fourth and fifth generations.
Currently, the US military still prioritizes equipping itself with the fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighter jet as the core to replace the F-16 Fighting Falcon and A-10 Thunderbolt II. However, practical operational challenges and the need to maintain a sufficient number of fighter aircraft have forced the US to change its approach.
Reinvesting in fourth-generation fighters like the F-15EX Eagle II is a balanced solution. Initially, this aircraft was ordered to replace the F-15C Eagle in the National Guard. However, thanks to its superior technical and tactical characteristics, along with significant potential for modernization of its electronics and weapons systems, the Eagle II is now being considered for regular service with the U.S. Air Force.
The fate of the old F-15C Eagle squadron.
Alongside the deployment of F-15EXs, the USAF has officially retired all F-15C Eagle aircraft after more than 45 years of service. The final combat flight of this legendary fighter jet will take place on January 24, 2025. The 18th Air Wing, which previously operated the F-15C, is currently preparing to receive the F-15EX.
However, the delivery process is facing obstacles due to delays from Boeing, affecting the training of instructor pilots and maintenance technicians. To address the short-term operational capability gap, Boeing has implemented an upgrade support package for older aircraft.
Specifically, in October 2025, Boeing's New Orleans plant completed the modernization of 37 F-15C Eagle aircraft. This upgrade is considered to give the F-15C some of the capabilities of the F-15EX, allowing them to maintain combat capability until the 2030s before being officially retired.