Aviation
Military /
USA
Remarkable veteran!
F-15E Strike Eagle will receive new radars to extend its operational life
F-15 Strike Eagle na pista
Divulgação/Defesa nacional da Polônia
Rafael Ramos
6/18/2021
The USAF's most modern fighter jets, the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lighting II, have raised the debate over acquisition costs and operating costs. This probably means that we will continue to see the McDonnel Douglas (a Boeing acquired company) F-15E Strike Eagle in service for a few more years.
The F-15 can, in theory, be considered an outdated aircraft if we consider the latest fifth generation models, both those of American origin, Russian or Chinese and even from other nations that are already starting to present their ultra designs. -modern.
Even so, the veteran F-15 continues to turn out to be a remarkably good jet, just needing a good deal of modernization of its avionics systems to keep up with recent military developments. In this regard, there is a contract with Raytheon to update the aircraft's radars. The F-15 Strike Eagle will be equipped with the APG-82(V) 1 radar, capable of not only detecting targets, but enhancements to manage them both in the air and on the ground.
The contract in question amounts to $3.12 billion. In all, the upgrade will be completed in 2036. Raytheon, in addition to manufacturing, will be responsible for modernizing and supporting these radars. These radars are the evolution of the AESA APG-79 used in the F/A-18/E/F fighters, but using the antenna of the APG-63(V)3 of the F-15C.
Is this radar enough to modernize the F-15 fighter to keep it in service for a few more decades? The radar was already sent to Boeing for testing in 2010 and also includes a broadband radome, which allows operation at more radar frequencies and environmental control, as well as general electronic improvements.
This advanced system, added to the jet's great qualities, could make it serviceable for a few more years at a considerably lower cost than purchasing the newest F-35 Lighting II, which is the most expensive military aircraft ever built if considered. the overall cost of the entire military program.
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Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
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