Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet (AP) Singh, undertook a high-profile familiarisation flight in the Boeing F-15EX Eagle II on April 9, 2026. The flight took place at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada during his official visit to the United States.
Singh flew alongside Major Matthew Benson of the US Air Force's 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron. The F-15EX is the latest iteration of the F-15, featuring digital fly-by-wire controls, advanced radar (AESA), and the ability to carry a massive payload of up to 13,381 kg.
The flight allowed the IAF chief to evaluate the jet's performance firsthand as India considers contenders for its 114-fighter jet (MRFA) procurement programme.
The visit and flight signal a deepening of India-US air power cooperation and strategic alignment in the Indo-Pacific region. On April 10, U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach also hosted Air Chief Marshal Singh at the Pentagon. Discussions with US Air Force Chief Gen. Ken Wilsbach focused on interoperability and joint training.
As part of the visit, Air Chief Marshal Singh received a full honors arrival at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and attended office calls with Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink and Wilsbach at the Pentagon. General Wilsbach also underscored the U.S. Air Force's readiness to further support Indian Air Force modernization efforts, noting the mutual benefits of pursuing these goals through defense industrial collaboration.
The F-15EX is being pitched and positioned by Boeing to the IAF as a viable alternative to the Rafale for India's long-term needs. US officials also indicated an open pathway for future discussions regarding the F-35 stealth fighter.
