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The upcoming multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti, scheduled for August 2024, is set to be a significant event in the global defence landscape.
The participation of the United States Air Force (USAF) with its F-15E Strike Eagle fighter aircraft holds particular relevance for India, given Boeing's proposal of the F-15EX, an advanced variant, for the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.
F-15E: A Proven Workhorse in the USAF Arsenal
The F-15E Strike Eagle, while not the exact variant offered for the MRFA program, is a formidable fighter-bomber with a distinguished combat history. Its participation in Tarang Shakti offers the IAF a firsthand look at the platform's capabilities, including air-to-air combat prowess and precision strike capabilities.F-15EX: The Next Generation of Fighter Aircraft
Boeing's F-15EX, the latest iteration of the Strike Eagle family, brings significant advancements to the table. With improved fly-by-wire flight controls, an enhanced electronic warfare suite, and a state-of-the-art radar and computer system, the F-15EX represents a substantial leap in performance compared to its predecessor.The F-15EX also boasts a 28% larger payload capacity than the F-15E, thanks to its strengthened airframe and the ability to carry conformal fuel tanks. This enhanced payload capacity translates to greater flexibility and firepower, making it a valuable asset in diverse operational scenarios.
Cost-Effective and Logistically Advantageous
One of the key selling points of the F-15EX is its cost-effectiveness. Sharing 70% of its parts with existing F-15 variants, the F-15EX minimizes infrastructure changes and pilot training requirements, leading to substantial cost savings for operators.Additionally, the global availability of spare parts, with production expected to continue until at least 2070, ensures long-term logistical support.
Tarang Shakti: A Platform for Evaluation and Decision-Making
The IAF's MRFA program is a critical initiative to modernize its fighter fleet, and the Tarang Shakti exercise serves as a valuable platform for evaluating various contenders. The IAF will have the opportunity to compare the capabilities of different aircraft, including the F-15EX, and assess their suitability for India's evolving defence needs.The exercise will also facilitate interactions between IAF personnel and their counterparts from the USAF, fostering knowledge exchange and enhancing interoperability between the two air forces.