USAF's Battle-Tested F-15E to Demonstrate Relevance in Modern Warfare for IAF, Eyeing India's MRFA Tender

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.

A Strategic Decision for India's Air Power​

The decision regarding the MRFA program is of paramount importance for India's air power and overall defence strategy. As the IAF embarks on this crucial procurement process, the insights gained from Tarang Shakti 2024 will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India's fighter fleet.

 

[PKPRS]

Entire MRFA is scam better to cancel this and channel the funds to MK2, ORCA and AMCA and TEDBF

We have to wait for 15 years for all these jets, that’s why we wanted MRFA.

 

[Akshat]

When you dream when you are awake, that is Day Dreaming, which doesn’t come true majority of the time 😂.

Indeed. It only comes true when you work hard to make it true. Somethinghaters of India like you won’t understand.

 

[Pink Panther]

Indeed. It only comes true when you work hard to make it true. Somethinghaters of India like you won’t understand.

only hater’s like you would want foreign product and give them billions of Indian’s tax payers income , but I like MWF Tejas MK2 that you hate.

 

[Torontodude]

It's in the same weight class as Su-30 MKI. The Super upgrade, will bring the Sukhois very close to the F15s, maybe even superior in some aspects. At a significantly lower cost. If IAF is thinking of F15s, might as well order new Super Su, given commonality and much lower training costs.