Boeing has expressed interest in converting its F-15EX Eagle II fighter jet into electronic attack aircraft similar to the EA-18G Growler.
Company official Rob Novotny revealed to Breaking Defense that internal discussions are currently underway whether to proceed with the proposed conversion or not.
The F-15EX already boasts an electronic warfare (EW) capability, thanks to its Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System.
However, with the planned conversion, the aircraft would presumably receive long-range electronic attack capabilities, such as advanced jamming pods.
Though the plan is still in the “nascent” stage, Novotny said Boeing is already eyeing potential customers in NATO.
Much Stealthier
Boeing’s F-15EX is a next-generation fighter aircraft and the latest iteration of the F-15 Eagle series.
It is capable of carrying a large number of missiles in support of F-35 aircraft, providing additional firepower.
Though not known for its stealth capabilities, the aircraft is powered by two F110 engines that allows it to fly up to 1,200 nautical miles (1,380 miles/2,222 kilometers) at speeds reaching Mach 2.5.
With the planned conversion, Novotny said he hopes the new capabilities would allow the F-15EX to become much stealthier, meaning it can “go to a place where the enemy doesn’t want it to go” and operate in their environment without being targeted.
He also claimed that the aircraft would provide several EW advantages, considering its range, speed, and payload capacity.
“Modern aerial combat requires command of the electromagnetic spectrum, and this platform would lead the way into the next decade or two,” he said.
