After Losing F-18 E/F, Boeing Has Renewed Confidence in F-15EX Eagle-II for India's MRCA Bid

After losing out on the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MRCA) contract with its F-18 E/F fighter jets, Boeing is re-entering the competition with renewed confidence in its F-15EX Eagle-II. The IAF is currently seeking to procure 114 new fighter jets, and Boeing believes the F-15EX is a strong contender due to its advanced technology and exceptional performance capabilities.

Boeing's optimism stems from significant improvements made to the F-15EX compared to its predecessor, the F-18 E/F. The company secured a license from the US government in 2022 to discuss the potential sale of the F-15EX to India, allowing them to respond to the IAF's Request for Information (RFI) and engage in detailed discussions.

The F-15EX boasts impressive features, including:

• Speed: A top speed of Mach 2.5, making it the world's fastest fighter jet.
• Payload: Ability to carry up to 13.6 tonnes of armaments, the most heavily-armed fighter in the world.
• Strike Range: An extensive strike range of 1,200 nautical miles.
• Combat Record: The F-15 series has a proven combat record with 104 air-to-air kills and zero losses.

Despite these advantages, the F-15EX faces challenges in the Indian market. As a heavy-class fighter jet, it falls into the same category as the Sukhoi-Su-30MKI, which currently forms the backbone of the IAF. This could potentially hinder its selection. However, past reports indicate that IAF officials hold the F-15 platform in high regard, suggesting that Boeing's bid may not be without merit.

The F-15EX's inclusion in the MRCA competition adds another layer of complexity to an already competitive race. As the IAF continues its evaluation process, it remains to be seen whether Boeing's renewed confidence in the F-15EX will translate into a successful bid.

 

[Sandeep]

so then why we need to spend $300Mln++ to buy Rafale, Our Super SU-30 with AESA radar can take care of them.

They are mainly developed to launch a nuclear strike mission. At the same time we can use the Rafale jets advanced weapons and missiles on the Rafale jets which makes our jets more lethal. Also that price hasn’t included the offset costs, and GST tax collection which would reduce the cost even more.

 

[PKPRS]

They are mainly developed to launch a nuclear strike mission. At the same time we can use the Rafale jets advanced weapons and missiles on the Rafale jets which makes our jets more lethal. Also that price hasn’t included the offset costs, and GST tax collection which would reduce the cost even more.

We don’t have that many nuclear weapon first of all, 36+26+124=186, IAF’s 36 Rafale’s are more than enough to launch N strike.

 

[PKPRS]

Exactly bro. They told him don’t worry. We don’t want a petty 36 plane order. We will buy whole 114 made in India set.

Why didn’t they make 22 Rafale-M’s in India then, why import, we all know that 4 are used.

 

[PKPRS]

If IAF can buy 36 Rafale and Navy can buy 26, then there is enough money bro.

If they shop for Scrape metal around the World, that means GOI is bankrupt which is opposite of lot of money.

 

[PKPRS]

Navy have informed to MoD , about two jets (F-18 & Rafale M) both are good , But MoD is going with Rafale-M 26 Jets for almost 50,000 cr

No official statement from MOD yet.

 

[Oleg Olkha]

Apropos: "The US is set to provide Israel with $3.5 billion to spend on US weapons and military equipment, releasing the money months after it was appropriated by Congress as tensions continue to rise between Israel and Iran, multiple officials familiar with the matter told CNN." To buy new F-15IA... The first squadron of two (25 units) $120 million per unit plus VAT. Prices not low, but worth it, including local production...