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U.S. Air Force Phases Out F-15C/D, Introduces F-15EX

4/8/2026

35 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Air Force is phasing out its aging F-15C/D Eagles, down to about 108 aircraft.
The F-15EX will replace the F-15C/D for homeland defense and air sovereignty missions.
Air National Guard units will deploy the F-15EX to intercept threats in the Alaska air defense identification zone (ADIZ).
The E-3 Sentry's future is uncertain as the Air Force weighs moving to the E-7 Wedgetail after a $2.33 billion contract.

History

Historical Context

The F-15 Eagle, introduced by the U.S. Air Force in 1976, was designed for air superiority, replacing the F-4 Phantom II. Over its service, the Air Force acquired 1,200 units, with the F-15C/D variants playing a vital role in defense. As of 2024, the transition to the F-15EX reflects modernization efforts to address evolving aerial threats, particularly in strategic regions like Alaska.

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Story summary

The U.S. Air Force is phasing out its aging F-15C/D Eagles, down to about 108 aircraft.
The F-15EX will replace the F-15C/D for homeland defense and air sovereignty missions.
Air National Guard units will deploy the F-15EX to intercept threats in the Alaska air defense identification zone (ADIZ).
The E-3 Sentry's future is uncertain as the Air Force weighs moving to the E-7 Wedgetail after a $2.33 billion contract.

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