Two US Air Force F-15EX Eagle II fighter aircraft have conducted a live-firing demonstration over the Gulf of Mexico.
The activity validated the operability and safety of the AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile (AMRAAM) and AIM-9X Sidewinder missile when launched from the F-15EX’s latest stations in Eglin AFB, Florida.
“The integrated test strategy has been critical to our test success, allowing us to break the mold of traditional testing, ultimately resulting in a better overall product for the warfighter in a shorter timeline than a traditional approach,” F‑15EX Test Project Manager Colton Myers said.
During the event, the service’s 96th Test Wing pilots fired the missiles against target drones.
Progress in US F-15EX Program
Upon the completion of initial testing, the F-15EX operational units will carry a full complement of 12 missiles, a significant upgrade over the 8-missile capacity of previous F-15 variants.
“The F-15EX is an incredible addition to the USAF inventory. This event, executed by a top-notch team of test pilots, engineers, and experts, proves yet again the F-15EX will be ready if, and when, our adversaries challenge our nation’s interests,” OFP CTF Commander Lt. Col. Christopher Wee added.
In 2021, the US Air Force’s F-15EX Eagle II took its maiden flight in Missouri.
The aircraft fired its first missile over the Gulf of Mexico in 2022. The same year, the F-15EX’s GE-129 engine completed its first acoustic test.