As the United States Air Force (USAF) looks to modernize its fleet, the F-15EX Eagle II has garnered attention not only for its impressive capabilities but also for its soaring costs, now even exceeding those of the F-35 Lightning II.

Recent developments have shown that the “flyaway cost” of the F-15EX is approximately $90 million for each aircraft in the program’s second production lot, a figure which is set to rise in subsequent lots. This cost analysis has sparked discussions among military tech and politics enthusiasts, who are keenly observing the dynamics of military spending and aircraft procurement.

Last week’s reports indicated the Polish Air Force’s interest in acquiring nearly two dozen F-15EX Eagle II fighters, a multirole strike aircraft that is among the most heavily armed in the U.S.

Air Force, carrying up to 30,000 pounds of munitions. This move is part of Poland’s broader modernization efforts and may play a strategic role on NATO’s eastern flank. However, it has also highlighted the jet’s high cost, with concerns raised regarding the value for money, especially when compared to the F-35.

In terms of costs, an Air Force spokesperson confirmed to Breaking Defense that the price for an F-15EX will start at “approximately” $90 million for lot 2, increase to $97 million in lot 3, and then dip to $94 million in lot 4.

These costs are going up year over year until the fourth lot is introduced. This upward trend contrasts sharply with the flyaway cost of the F-35A, which stands at an “average” of $82.5 million for its 15th, 16th, and 17th production lots.

The contrast in cost between the two aircraft types has sparked debate within the military community. The F-35 is seen as a fifth-generation fighter with capabilities that surpass many fourth-generation aircraft in production today.

The F-15EX, on the other hand, is described as a 4++ generation fighter, which Boeing has presented as easier to build and maintain compared to an equal number of F-35s. Yet, the current price trajectory suggests otherwise.

Boeing has signaled that foreign military orders from countries like Indonesia and Israel could help lower the costs of the F-15EX. Indonesia has shown interest in purchasing up to 24 aircraft, and Israel is on track to obtain 25 of the aircraft, potentially doubling the order. This international interest could be welcome news for the U.S. Air Force and taxpayers, potentially easing the burden of costs.

Moreover, discussions around the F-15EX also involve the strategic implications of aircraft capabilities. While the F-35 is well-suited for penetrating advanced anti-access/area denial zones with its stealth features, the F-15EX is seen as having the potential to operate “behind the frontlines” and perform homeland defense missions.

The diversity of the fighter fleet is essential, and the F-15EX adds to that by offering different combat roles and weapon optimizations.

However, the increase in costs has raised some skepticism. Critics have questioned the logic behind continuing to focus on the F-15EX when the F-35A, with its advanced capabilities, is available at a lower acquisition cost.

The price comparison becomes even more poignant when considering the operational roles and expected lifespans of these aircraft. The F-35’s stealth capabilities and advanced technology are contrasted with the F-15EX’s non-stealth characteristics, yet the latter’s operational costs are cited as being less expensive than the F-35.

The debate around the F-15EX Eagle II reflects the broader conversation about military spending, aircraft procurement, and the future of USAF’s fighter fleet.

As the costs of these advanced aircraft continue to climb, the strategic decisions surrounding them will undoubtedly have significant implications for defense policies and the capabilities of the U.S. and its allies. Enthusiasts and experts alike will continue to scrutinize these developments, weighing the costs against the combat readiness and strategic advantage offered by these formidable birds of prey.

Relevant articles:
– How Can the F-15EX Fighter Be More Expensive Than the F-35?, The National Interest
– 15EX contracts are set. Here’s how much they cost. (EXCLUSIVE), Breaking Defense
– F-15EX is Now More Expensive Than Air Force’s F-35 Stealth Fighter, The National Interest
– USAF: The F-15EX Costs Less than the F-35, TURDEF