F-15E vs. F-15EX: Not Your Father’s F-15

F-15E vs. F-15EX: Not Your Father’s F-15

The F-15 Eagle has long been a staple of aerial dominance, but the transition from the F-15E Strike Eagle to the new F-15EX Eagle II represents a massive leap in digital capability and firepower. While they share the same iconic silhouette and a Mach 2.5 top speed, the “EX” variant is a thoroughly modern machine designed for the 21st-century battlefield.

Performance and Payload Enhancements

The F-15EX offers significant upgrades in endurance and carrying capacity over its predecessor:

• Payload: The F-15EX can carry 29,500 lbs, a 28.2% increase over the F-15E’s 23,000 lbs.

• Air-to-Air Load: The “EX” can carry 12 missiles, compared to 10 on the “E” model.

• Ferry Range: The range has been extended to 2,992 miles, up from 2,400 miles.

• Service Ceiling: The newer variant can operate at 60,000 ft, a 20% increase over the F-15E’s 50,000 ft.

• Service Life: The airframe is significantly more durable, rated for 20,000 flight hours—a 150% increase over the original 8,000 hours.

Technological Evolution

Beyond raw physical stats, the F-15EX introduces high-tech systems that redefine its role in the Air Force:

• Flight Controls: It moves from analog/hydromechanical systems to a digital fly-by-wire system with a fiber-optic network.

• Cockpit Display: The older “steam” gauges and small multifunction displays are replaced by a 10″x19″ large area, reconfigurable digital display.

• Sensors and Defense: The F-15EX features the APG-82(V)1 AESA radar and the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Survivability System (EPAWSS) for superior electronic warfare capabilities.

• Processing Power: The heart of the aircraft is the Advanced Display Core Processor II, providing much higher computing speeds than the older 2004-era processors.

Comparison at a Glance

While the F-15E remains a legendary workhorse with 218 currently in inventory, the 144 to 200 planned F-15EX aircraft ensure the Eagle’s legacy continues with modern digital lethality.