Boeing Accelerates Production: F-15EX at Double Speed by 2026

Boeing has ramped up manufacturing of the advanced F-15EX fighter jet.

The goal is clear: a steady production rate of two aircraft per month by the end of 2026. This comes in response to growing demand from the Pentagon and potential foreign customers.

Production is taking place in St. Louis, Missouri, where an aging assembly line has, for years, delivered F-15 variants to countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and South Korea. The factory is now undergoing a major upgrade to meet the rising demand.

Boeing’s experience with the aircraft is unquestionable, but the existing infrastructure was geared toward smaller export-focused production runs.

Digitalization and Flexible Supply Chain

To reach its goal, Boeing is heavily investing in automation and the implementation of so-called digital twins, which will enhance quality control and streamline assembly. Additionally, the company is expanding its collaboration with suppliers through “lean manufacturing zones” that ensure faster and more efficient component deliveries.

A central element of Boeing’s strategy is the standardization across systems such as AESA radars and cockpit equipment, improving interoperability between various aircraft programs.

At the same time, cooperation with General Electric is being intensified to accelerate deliveries of the F110-GE-129 engines that power the F-15EX.

A Jet with Muscle and Future-Proofing

The F-15EX is much more than an upgraded version of the classic F-15 design. It can carry up to 12 air-to-air missiles and perform ground strikes without the need for midair refueling. Each of its two engines delivers over 17,000 pounds of thrust—with afterburner capability pushing it past 29,000 pounds.

With a projected service life of 20,000 flight hours, and featuring the latest in fly-by-wire controls, mission computers, and a panoramic multifunction display, the F-15EX is built for long-term, high-intensity use.

An advanced electronic warfare system and sensors from companies like Raytheon also ensure the aircraft is prepared for today’s modern threat environment.

Global Interest and a European Opportunity

Although no European nation has yet selected the F-15 platform, Poland is being highlighted as a potential future customer.

At a time when the Polish Air Force is planning to retire its F-16 fleet after 2035, the F-15EX could serve as a powerful complement to the F-35 and Eurofighter.

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