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LEGEND
AMBER = Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejection Rack
CFTs = Conformal Fuel Tanks
DEAD = Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses
F-15 = Platform
F-16 = Platform
F-15EX = Variant (also referred to as the modern F-15E and F-15X in short)
SEAD = Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses
VLO = Very Low Observable
--- --- ---
F-15EX represents a formidable blending of the Warfighting Concepts of the EA-18G Growler (SEAD; DEAD) and F-35 Lightning II (5th generation capabilities) in a single platform, to complement 5th generation platforms across a full range of operational challenges.
[1]
Advanced Crew Station - 5th generation class
F-15 cockpit over time.
[2]
Traditional cockpit displays have been a major limiting factor in majority of the combat aircraft in service around the world to achieve next-generation SENSOR FUSION capabilities introduced in the true 5th generation combat aircraft such as the F-22A Raptor and F-35 variants.
F-15EX is equipped with cockpit displays of same class as in the F-35 variants; USAF is making F-15EX interoperable with the true 5th generation combat aircraft such as the F-22A Raptor and F-35 variants in line with proposed Mosiac Warfare doctine [3].
[4]
"The modern F-15E shows how neatly compartmentalizing fighters into "generations" can be misleading and subconsciously shape our perceptions. Consider the fifth-generation F-35's much-lauded sensor fusion. This is enabled by computing power, software, sensors, and algorithms; all items with high potential to scale to other platforms — and they have. Despite the hype, the reality is that almost all current fighters have had some form of sensor fusion for the better part of a decade. In fact, the newest, largest, and most capable radar and the highest computing power on a U.S. aircraft aren’t on a fifth-generation fighter — they’re on the F-15E.
In the time I've flown the F-15E I've seen it progress through seven major operational software updates (called suites) and various hardware upgrades, each more integrated and potent than the last. When the next software upgrade arrives it will have even more sensors and hardware. In fact, the only limitation keeping it from achieving sensor fusion on par with the F-35 is its cockpit displays. As an example of how sequestration and funding instability drive incoherent budget choices, nearly $12 billion in aforementioned F-15E sensor upgrades are still stubbornly pushed through 1980s displays that use cathode-ray tubes to produce low-quality analog video that aren't even all color, let alone digital, touchscreen, or high-resolution. The impressive F-35 cockpit has all of this, and that makes all the difference. The F-15EX enhanced cockpit displays mirror the newest displays coming to both F/A-18 Block III and F-35 Block 4, mostly because they are all made by the same company." - Mike Benitez [2]
[5]
[5]
The F-15 eventually shows how targeted hardware and software investments unlock capabilities that blur the lines between generations of fighters.
AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar system - 4th generation AESA hybrid design
This radar system combine 'radar processor' of the 2nd generation AN/APG-79 AESA radar system* and 'antenna hardware' of the 3rd generation AN/APG-63(V)3 AESA radar system** into a single solution - one of the most powerful AESA applications in the world. This radar system enable simultaneous radar and jamming operations, and also feature radio frequency tunable filters.
An aircraft equipped with the AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar system can simultaneously detect, identify and track multiple air and surface targets at longer ranges than ever before.
*Used in F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler respectively.
**Used in F-15C and F-15E respectively.
New Flight Mission Computer - arguably the fastest in a jet fighter
Also recognized as the Advanced Display Core Processor II (or ADCPII in short), this FMC can process up to 87 billion instructions per second - arguably the fastest in a jet fighter [6].
This FMC is critical to support features such as the state-of-the-art Eagle Passive/Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS), long-range Infrared Search and Track capability (IRST), high-speed radar communications and future software suite upgrades [6].
29,500 lb payload capacity - bringing unprecedented FIREPOWER to the table
F-15EX is capable of employing virtually every weapon in the American/NATO inventory at present including payloads assigned to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler.
The most striking aspect of the F-15EX variant is its incredible payload capacity courtesy of the new AMBER missile carrying racks [7]. Payload capacity of the aircraft has jumped to a whopping 29,500 pounds consequently.
"With the help of the company's new AMBER missile carrying racks, the F-15X will be able to carry a whopping 22 air-to-air missiles during a single sortie. Alternatively, it could fly with eight air-to-air missiles and 28 Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs), or up to seven 2,000lb bombs and eight air-to-air missiles. We are talking crazy weapons hauling capabilities here. Keep in mind that the F-15C/D Eagle can carry eight air-to-air missiles currently, and the penultimate Eagle variant that is currently being built, the F-15SA, can carry a dozen." - Tyler Rogoway [8]
Combat Radius = 1100+ Nautical Miles (2037+ Kilometers)
Fuel Capacity = 13,550 pounds (internal); 23,350 pounds (with CFTs)
Check following link for comparison between the F-15E and F-15EX:
F-15EX is being particularly optimized for employing long-range standoff munitions including the subsonic Harpoon types, the supersonic JSOW types, as well as the emerging Hypersonics [2][9], to devastating effect in the battlefield, thanks in part to its extreme payload capacity.
Digital Fly-By-Wire (FBW) flight control system
FBW is essential to facilitating maneuverability; FBW improves CONTROL in extreme conditions, such as at low speed and high angle of attack. FBW also reduce weight, improve reliability, and increase aircraft fuel efficiency. F-16 was the first true 4th generation combat aircraft platform to incorporate FBW [10], for enhanced maneuverability.
F-15 was originally engineered in response to the Soviet Union's MIG-25 supersonic interceptor (MACH 3.0+ rated) before the advent of microprocessors and digital fly-by-wire systems [2]. MIG-25 was lacking in the maneuverability aspect however [11] - a weakness that F-15 was able to exploit to its advantage in several conflicts and score relevant kills.
F-15 is essentially noted for its large size, impressive payload capacity, powerful radar system(s), and BVR engagement capabilities, in the literature and otherwise. F-15 is/was not lacking in the maneuverability aspect either; achieved with a high engine thrust-to-weight ratio and low wing loading. Nevertheless, F-15EX has shifted to the FBW bandwagon with a complete wing structural redesign***, to make sure that there is no compromise in the maneuverability aspect of the aircraft in relation to increase in its payload capacity. Better safe than sorry.
***Apparent in the official 3D modeling of the aircraft from BOEING below.
NOTE: F-15EX feature Quad Channel FBW actuators for Rudders and Stabilizers.
Powerful IRST solution - to help counter stealthy aerial targets in the BVR engagement regime
Located under the fuselage belly, the Legion Pod mounted IRST solution will facilitate detection of stealthy aerial targets as well as communications with F-35 variants during the course of operations.
"Lockheed has a new modular sensor system for combat aircraft dubbed the "Legion Pod" that aims at plugging a major hole in US air warfare capability. It provides a bolt-on Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system for optically hunting down enemy aircraft, especially stealthy ones, that our radars have trouble detecting." - Tyler Rogoway [12]
This system delivers in both WVR and BVR engagement regimes [13].
The ability to detect, track, sort, and even identify aerial targets without using radar at beyond-visual-ranges is a massive upgrade for the mighty Eagle and comes at a time when stealthy aircraft and cruise missiles are beginning to proliferate around the globe. The Air Force is already rushing to modify its high-end training to confront this reality, but the IRST, with its detection capabilities uninfluenced by low-observable (stealthy) radar-evading designs, can't come soon enough." - Tyler Rogoway [13]
Legion Pod is programmed to achieve Data Fusion with the onboard AESA radar system of the host jet fighter [15]; this helps minimize RF emissions of the host jet fighter in the BVR engagement regime [13].
AN/ALQ-50 EPAWSS - 5th generation class full spectrum EW capabilities
The Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) transforms F-15EX into an EA-18G Growler type SEAD platform, providing both offensive and defensive electronic warfare options for the pilot and aircraft. EPAWSS offers fully integrated radar warning, geolocation, situational awareness, and self-protection solutions to detect and defeat surface and airborne threats in signal-dense contested and/or highly contested environments, enabling deeper penetration against modern integrated air defense systems in the process.
"The EPAWSS system collects and processes electromagnetic energy to instantaneously capture a 360-degree aerial field of view to provide a comprehensive picture of the battlespace. This gives the pilot maximum situational awareness, helping to identify, monitor, analyze, and rapidly respond to potential threats. EPAWSS has a broad instantaneous bandwidth and high speed scanning capability to detect all RF threat classes including low probability of intercept and modern agile threats. To counter threats, the EPAWSS electronic countermeasure technique toolbox leverages many years of proven techniques and can be programmed to defeat legacy and modern threats." - BAE systems [14]
EPAWSS is EXPANSION of the AN/ALQ-239 DEWS which leverages F-22 and F-35 EW programs:
[16]
"Newer EW system designs are more fully adopting digital EW system (DEWS) architectures promoted by each branch of the U.S. armed forces, such as the Army. DEWS approaches shift from traditional broadband analog radar warning receivers (RWRs) and signal-intelligence (SIGINT) subsystems to more thoroughly digital electronic subsystems." - Jack Browne [17]
EPAWSS is in league of the cutting edge AN/ASQ-239 EW system:
“Our EW systems fly on the F-35, F-22, F-16, F-15, EC-130H, EC-37B, and U-2, as well as many other aircraft, including classified platforms,” says the spokesperson. “Two of our most important systems are the AN/ASQ-239 electronic warfare/countermeasure system for the F-35 and the AN/ALQ-250 Eagle passive active warning survivability system (EPAWSS) for US F-15E and F-15EX aircraft.
“ASQ-239 is the world's most advanced, fully integrated EW and countermeasures system. It provides 360-degree situational awareness and rapid response capabilities, and combines radar warning, targeting support, and self-protection to enable F-35 pilots to engage, counter, jam, or evade threats. EPAWSS – which leverages EW technology from fifth-generation aircraft – also provides advanced aircraft protection and situational awareness, and combines radar warning, targeting support, and self-protection capabilities.” - Berenice Healey (BAE systems) [18]
Evolution of the EW capabilities of the F-15 platform over time:-
AN/ALQ-135(V) TEWS -> AN/ALQ-239 DEWS -> AN/ALQ-50 EPAWSS [19]
Although much about the capabilities of the EPAWSS is CLASSIFIED and might understandably remain so for indefinite period, but being an all-digital system, it requires a smaller footprint than previous systems, allowing it to seamlessly integrate new capabilities and remain current.
"The F-15X could also allow current F-15C/D units to migrate to multi-role mission sets instead of the strictly air-to-air mission that they have traditionally performed. The F-15QA will be capable of deploying close to every weapon in the Pentagon's tactical fighter weapons inventory and so will the F-15X. This includes weapons like JSOW, Harpoon, and even HARM. But once again, taking on new missions can be done selectively and F-15C/D units could just as well continue concentrating on air-to-air combat exclusively.
Yet even a suppression/destruction of enemy air defenses (SEAD/DEAD) role that leverages the F-15X's powerful electronic warfare and electronic surveillance measures suites, along with new weapons like JSOW and HARM, would fold nicely into the 'Gray Eagle' community's counter-air role." - Tyler Rogoway [8]
NOTE: Unlike the true 5th generation combat aircraft such as the F-22A Raptor and F-35 variants, F-15EX does not incorporate VLO characteristics.
[20]
Therefore, F-15EX will utilize EPAWSS coupled with standoff munitions including AGM-88 HARM types, to suppress and/or destroy modern-era surface defenses from afar (SEAD; DEAD).
EPAWSS is a significant asset in network-centric warfare environment:
theaviationgeekclub.com
Powerful and reliable engines
F-15EX is equipped with a pair of GE F110-129 engines [21].
The bottom line
"With the F-15E receiving a series of major upgrades, including a new hugely powerful AN/APG-82 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and the highly-advanced Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) radar warning and electronic warfare suite, among other upgrades and new weaponry, the airframe will remain a very hard-hitting and versatile platform for decades to come." - Tyler Rogoway [22]
F-15EX represents a formidable blending of the Warfighting Concepts of the EA-18G Growler (SEAD; DEAD) and F-35 Lightning II (5th generation capabilities) in a single distinct platform, to serve in the capacity of a force-multiplier for the true 5th generation combat aircraft across a full range of operational challenges. Even if the F-15EX does not match F-35 variants in the SENSOR FUSION aspect in its current form, the former can still be brought at par over time without significant effort - refer back to the Advanced Crew Station part above.
BOEING seems to have PORTED all major characteristics of the defunct F-15SE Silent Eagle project:
[16]
- to the latest F-15EX variant, and have introduced additional capabilities in the mix.
The F-15X configuration is impressive as it includes a flat-panel glass cockpit, JHMCS II helmet mounted display (HMD), revised internal wing structure, fly-by-wire controls, APG-82 AESA radar, activation of outer wing stations one and nine, advanced mission computer, low-profile heads-up display, updated radio and satellite communications, the highly advanced Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) electronic warfare and electronic surveillance suite, Legion Pod-mounted infrared search and track system (IRST) and the list goes on. - Tyler Rogoway [8]
Sources:-
[1] Details in following link:
https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/anatomy-boeing-f-15ex
[2] Details in following link:
https://warontherocks.com/2019/06/f-15ex-the-strategic-blind-spot-in-the-air-forces-fighter-debate/
[3] Details in following link:
https://www.airforcemag.com/article/mosaic-warfare/
[4] Details in following link:
www.thedrive.com
[5] Details in following link:
https://sldinfo.com/whitepapers/the-f-35-and-advanced-sensor-fusion/
[6] Details in following link:
[7] Patent information:
https://patents.google.com/patent/US20170259919A1/en
[8] Details in following link:
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zo...15x-boeings-f-15c-d-eagle-replacement-fighter
[9] Details in following link:
https://www.nationaldefensemagazine...ter-was-designed-to-carry-hypersonic-missiles
[10] Details in following link:
http://www.f-16.net/articles_article13.html
[11] Details in following link:
https://warisboring.com/the-soviet-mig-25-spooked-the-u-s-military/
[12] Details in following link:
https://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/infrared-search-and-track-systems-and-the-future-of-the-1691441747
[13] Details in following link:
www.thedrive.com
[14] Details in following link:
https://www.baesystems.com/en-us/product/eagle-passive-active-warning-survivability-system-epawss
[15] Details in following link:
defense-update.com
[16] Details in following link:
https://www.slideshare.net/TheDEWLi...60-438c-8ad4-6c5bebc4c551&v=&b=&from_search=1
[17] Quoted from following link:
www.mwrf.com
[18] Quoted from following link:
defence.nridigital.com
[19] Related information in following link:
https://www.tealgroup.com/index.php...item/an-alq-135-v-tews-an-alq-239-dews-epawss
[20] Adopted from following link:
https://www.airforcemag.com/article/f-15ex-vs-f-35a/
[21] Confirmed in following link:
www.airforcemag.com
[22] Details in following link:
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zo...f-15e-strike-eagle-in-this-exhilarating-video
AMBER = Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejection Rack
CFTs = Conformal Fuel Tanks
DEAD = Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses
F-15 = Platform
F-16 = Platform
F-15EX = Variant (also referred to as the modern F-15E and F-15X in short)
SEAD = Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses
VLO = Very Low Observable
--- --- ---
F-15EX represents a formidable blending of the Warfighting Concepts of the EA-18G Growler (SEAD; DEAD) and F-35 Lightning II (5th generation capabilities) in a single platform, to complement 5th generation platforms across a full range of operational challenges.
Advanced Crew Station - 5th generation class
F-15 cockpit over time.
Traditional cockpit displays have been a major limiting factor in majority of the combat aircraft in service around the world to achieve next-generation SENSOR FUSION capabilities introduced in the true 5th generation combat aircraft such as the F-22A Raptor and F-35 variants.
F-15EX is equipped with cockpit displays of same class as in the F-35 variants; USAF is making F-15EX interoperable with the true 5th generation combat aircraft such as the F-22A Raptor and F-35 variants in line with proposed Mosiac Warfare doctine [3].
"The modern F-15E shows how neatly compartmentalizing fighters into "generations" can be misleading and subconsciously shape our perceptions. Consider the fifth-generation F-35's much-lauded sensor fusion. This is enabled by computing power, software, sensors, and algorithms; all items with high potential to scale to other platforms — and they have. Despite the hype, the reality is that almost all current fighters have had some form of sensor fusion for the better part of a decade. In fact, the newest, largest, and most capable radar and the highest computing power on a U.S. aircraft aren’t on a fifth-generation fighter — they’re on the F-15E.
In the time I've flown the F-15E I've seen it progress through seven major operational software updates (called suites) and various hardware upgrades, each more integrated and potent than the last. When the next software upgrade arrives it will have even more sensors and hardware. In fact, the only limitation keeping it from achieving sensor fusion on par with the F-35 is its cockpit displays. As an example of how sequestration and funding instability drive incoherent budget choices, nearly $12 billion in aforementioned F-15E sensor upgrades are still stubbornly pushed through 1980s displays that use cathode-ray tubes to produce low-quality analog video that aren't even all color, let alone digital, touchscreen, or high-resolution. The impressive F-35 cockpit has all of this, and that makes all the difference. The F-15EX enhanced cockpit displays mirror the newest displays coming to both F/A-18 Block III and F-35 Block 4, mostly because they are all made by the same company." - Mike Benitez [2]
The F-15 eventually shows how targeted hardware and software investments unlock capabilities that blur the lines between generations of fighters.
AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar system - 4th generation AESA hybrid design
This radar system combine 'radar processor' of the 2nd generation AN/APG-79 AESA radar system* and 'antenna hardware' of the 3rd generation AN/APG-63(V)3 AESA radar system** into a single solution - one of the most powerful AESA applications in the world. This radar system enable simultaneous radar and jamming operations, and also feature radio frequency tunable filters.
An aircraft equipped with the AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar system can simultaneously detect, identify and track multiple air and surface targets at longer ranges than ever before.
*Used in F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler respectively.
**Used in F-15C and F-15E respectively.
New Flight Mission Computer - arguably the fastest in a jet fighter
Also recognized as the Advanced Display Core Processor II (or ADCPII in short), this FMC can process up to 87 billion instructions per second - arguably the fastest in a jet fighter [6].
This FMC is critical to support features such as the state-of-the-art Eagle Passive/Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS), long-range Infrared Search and Track capability (IRST), high-speed radar communications and future software suite upgrades [6].
29,500 lb payload capacity - bringing unprecedented FIREPOWER to the table
F-15EX is capable of employing virtually every weapon in the American/NATO inventory at present including payloads assigned to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler.
The most striking aspect of the F-15EX variant is its incredible payload capacity courtesy of the new AMBER missile carrying racks [7]. Payload capacity of the aircraft has jumped to a whopping 29,500 pounds consequently.
"With the help of the company's new AMBER missile carrying racks, the F-15X will be able to carry a whopping 22 air-to-air missiles during a single sortie. Alternatively, it could fly with eight air-to-air missiles and 28 Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs), or up to seven 2,000lb bombs and eight air-to-air missiles. We are talking crazy weapons hauling capabilities here. Keep in mind that the F-15C/D Eagle can carry eight air-to-air missiles currently, and the penultimate Eagle variant that is currently being built, the F-15SA, can carry a dozen." - Tyler Rogoway [8]
Combat Radius = 1100+ Nautical Miles (2037+ Kilometers)
Fuel Capacity = 13,550 pounds (internal); 23,350 pounds (with CFTs)
Check following link for comparison between the F-15E and F-15EX:
F-15EX is being particularly optimized for employing long-range standoff munitions including the subsonic Harpoon types, the supersonic JSOW types, as well as the emerging Hypersonics [2][9], to devastating effect in the battlefield, thanks in part to its extreme payload capacity.
Digital Fly-By-Wire (FBW) flight control system
FBW is essential to facilitating maneuverability; FBW improves CONTROL in extreme conditions, such as at low speed and high angle of attack. FBW also reduce weight, improve reliability, and increase aircraft fuel efficiency. F-16 was the first true 4th generation combat aircraft platform to incorporate FBW [10], for enhanced maneuverability.
F-15 was originally engineered in response to the Soviet Union's MIG-25 supersonic interceptor (MACH 3.0+ rated) before the advent of microprocessors and digital fly-by-wire systems [2]. MIG-25 was lacking in the maneuverability aspect however [11] - a weakness that F-15 was able to exploit to its advantage in several conflicts and score relevant kills.
F-15 is essentially noted for its large size, impressive payload capacity, powerful radar system(s), and BVR engagement capabilities, in the literature and otherwise. F-15 is/was not lacking in the maneuverability aspect either; achieved with a high engine thrust-to-weight ratio and low wing loading. Nevertheless, F-15EX has shifted to the FBW bandwagon with a complete wing structural redesign***, to make sure that there is no compromise in the maneuverability aspect of the aircraft in relation to increase in its payload capacity. Better safe than sorry.
***Apparent in the official 3D modeling of the aircraft from BOEING below.
NOTE: F-15EX feature Quad Channel FBW actuators for Rudders and Stabilizers.
Powerful IRST solution - to help counter stealthy aerial targets in the BVR engagement regime
Located under the fuselage belly, the Legion Pod mounted IRST solution will facilitate detection of stealthy aerial targets as well as communications with F-35 variants during the course of operations.
"Lockheed has a new modular sensor system for combat aircraft dubbed the "Legion Pod" that aims at plugging a major hole in US air warfare capability. It provides a bolt-on Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system for optically hunting down enemy aircraft, especially stealthy ones, that our radars have trouble detecting." - Tyler Rogoway [12]
This system delivers in both WVR and BVR engagement regimes [13].
The ability to detect, track, sort, and even identify aerial targets without using radar at beyond-visual-ranges is a massive upgrade for the mighty Eagle and comes at a time when stealthy aircraft and cruise missiles are beginning to proliferate around the globe. The Air Force is already rushing to modify its high-end training to confront this reality, but the IRST, with its detection capabilities uninfluenced by low-observable (stealthy) radar-evading designs, can't come soon enough." - Tyler Rogoway [13]
Legion Pod is programmed to achieve Data Fusion with the onboard AESA radar system of the host jet fighter [15]; this helps minimize RF emissions of the host jet fighter in the BVR engagement regime [13].
AN/ALQ-50 EPAWSS - 5th generation class full spectrum EW capabilities
The Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) transforms F-15EX into an EA-18G Growler type SEAD platform, providing both offensive and defensive electronic warfare options for the pilot and aircraft. EPAWSS offers fully integrated radar warning, geolocation, situational awareness, and self-protection solutions to detect and defeat surface and airborne threats in signal-dense contested and/or highly contested environments, enabling deeper penetration against modern integrated air defense systems in the process.
"The EPAWSS system collects and processes electromagnetic energy to instantaneously capture a 360-degree aerial field of view to provide a comprehensive picture of the battlespace. This gives the pilot maximum situational awareness, helping to identify, monitor, analyze, and rapidly respond to potential threats. EPAWSS has a broad instantaneous bandwidth and high speed scanning capability to detect all RF threat classes including low probability of intercept and modern agile threats. To counter threats, the EPAWSS electronic countermeasure technique toolbox leverages many years of proven techniques and can be programmed to defeat legacy and modern threats." - BAE systems [14]
EPAWSS is EXPANSION of the AN/ALQ-239 DEWS which leverages F-22 and F-35 EW programs:
"Newer EW system designs are more fully adopting digital EW system (DEWS) architectures promoted by each branch of the U.S. armed forces, such as the Army. DEWS approaches shift from traditional broadband analog radar warning receivers (RWRs) and signal-intelligence (SIGINT) subsystems to more thoroughly digital electronic subsystems." - Jack Browne [17]
EPAWSS is in league of the cutting edge AN/ASQ-239 EW system:
“Our EW systems fly on the F-35, F-22, F-16, F-15, EC-130H, EC-37B, and U-2, as well as many other aircraft, including classified platforms,” says the spokesperson. “Two of our most important systems are the AN/ASQ-239 electronic warfare/countermeasure system for the F-35 and the AN/ALQ-250 Eagle passive active warning survivability system (EPAWSS) for US F-15E and F-15EX aircraft.
“ASQ-239 is the world's most advanced, fully integrated EW and countermeasures system. It provides 360-degree situational awareness and rapid response capabilities, and combines radar warning, targeting support, and self-protection to enable F-35 pilots to engage, counter, jam, or evade threats. EPAWSS – which leverages EW technology from fifth-generation aircraft – also provides advanced aircraft protection and situational awareness, and combines radar warning, targeting support, and self-protection capabilities.” - Berenice Healey (BAE systems) [18]
Evolution of the EW capabilities of the F-15 platform over time:-
AN/ALQ-135(V) TEWS -> AN/ALQ-239 DEWS -> AN/ALQ-50 EPAWSS [19]
Although much about the capabilities of the EPAWSS is CLASSIFIED and might understandably remain so for indefinite period, but being an all-digital system, it requires a smaller footprint than previous systems, allowing it to seamlessly integrate new capabilities and remain current.
"The F-15X could also allow current F-15C/D units to migrate to multi-role mission sets instead of the strictly air-to-air mission that they have traditionally performed. The F-15QA will be capable of deploying close to every weapon in the Pentagon's tactical fighter weapons inventory and so will the F-15X. This includes weapons like JSOW, Harpoon, and even HARM. But once again, taking on new missions can be done selectively and F-15C/D units could just as well continue concentrating on air-to-air combat exclusively.
Yet even a suppression/destruction of enemy air defenses (SEAD/DEAD) role that leverages the F-15X's powerful electronic warfare and electronic surveillance measures suites, along with new weapons like JSOW and HARM, would fold nicely into the 'Gray Eagle' community's counter-air role." - Tyler Rogoway [8]
NOTE: Unlike the true 5th generation combat aircraft such as the F-22A Raptor and F-35 variants, F-15EX does not incorporate VLO characteristics.
Therefore, F-15EX will utilize EPAWSS coupled with standoff munitions including AGM-88 HARM types, to suppress and/or destroy modern-era surface defenses from afar (SEAD; DEAD).
EPAWSS is a significant asset in network-centric warfare environment:
USAF used the EPAWSS on the F-15 to allow the F-35A to approach closer to the enemy during exercise Northern Edge - The Aviation Geek Club
USAF used the EPAWSS on the F-15 to allow the F-35A to approach closer to the enemy during exercise Northern Edge
theaviationgeekclub.com
Powerful and reliable engines
F-15EX is equipped with a pair of GE F110-129 engines [21].
The bottom line
"With the F-15E receiving a series of major upgrades, including a new hugely powerful AN/APG-82 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and the highly-advanced Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) radar warning and electronic warfare suite, among other upgrades and new weaponry, the airframe will remain a very hard-hitting and versatile platform for decades to come." - Tyler Rogoway [22]
F-15EX represents a formidable blending of the Warfighting Concepts of the EA-18G Growler (SEAD; DEAD) and F-35 Lightning II (5th generation capabilities) in a single distinct platform, to serve in the capacity of a force-multiplier for the true 5th generation combat aircraft across a full range of operational challenges. Even if the F-15EX does not match F-35 variants in the SENSOR FUSION aspect in its current form, the former can still be brought at par over time without significant effort - refer back to the Advanced Crew Station part above.
BOEING seems to have PORTED all major characteristics of the defunct F-15SE Silent Eagle project:
- to the latest F-15EX variant, and have introduced additional capabilities in the mix.
The F-15X configuration is impressive as it includes a flat-panel glass cockpit, JHMCS II helmet mounted display (HMD), revised internal wing structure, fly-by-wire controls, APG-82 AESA radar, activation of outer wing stations one and nine, advanced mission computer, low-profile heads-up display, updated radio and satellite communications, the highly advanced Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) electronic warfare and electronic surveillance suite, Legion Pod-mounted infrared search and track system (IRST) and the list goes on. - Tyler Rogoway [8]
Sources:-
[1] Details in following link:
https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/anatomy-boeing-f-15ex
[2] Details in following link:
https://warontherocks.com/2019/06/f-15ex-the-strategic-blind-spot-in-the-air-forces-fighter-debate/
[3] Details in following link:
https://www.airforcemag.com/article/mosaic-warfare/
[4] Details in following link:
What It Is Like Flying The Most Advanced F-15 Eagle Ever Built
A test pilot's perspective on Qatari F-15QA trials that will pave the way to deliveries in 2021, and help the development of the USAF’s new F-15EX.
www.thedrive.com
[5] Details in following link:
https://sldinfo.com/whitepapers/the-f-35-and-advanced-sensor-fusion/
[6] Details in following link:
[7] Patent information:
https://patents.google.com/patent/US20170259919A1/en
[8] Details in following link:
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zo...15x-boeings-f-15c-d-eagle-replacement-fighter
[9] Details in following link:
https://www.nationaldefensemagazine...ter-was-designed-to-carry-hypersonic-missiles
[10] Details in following link:
http://www.f-16.net/articles_article13.html
[11] Details in following link:
https://warisboring.com/the-soviet-mig-25-spooked-the-u-s-military/
[12] Details in following link:
https://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/infrared-search-and-track-systems-and-the-future-of-the-1691441747
[13] Details in following link:
F-15 Uses New Infrared Pod To Shoot Down Target F-16 With AIM-120 Missile
The F-15's new Infrared Search and Track pod has just proved its ability to provide targeting data needed to make a long-range missile kill.
www.thedrive.com
[14] Details in following link:
https://www.baesystems.com/en-us/product/eagle-passive-active-warning-survivability-system-epawss
[15] Details in following link:
New IRST pod to enhance the Eagle’s air/air targeting - Defense Update:
Combining Lockheed Martin’s IRST21 infrared sensor with advanced networking and data processing technology, Legion Pod accommodates additional sensors within its current structure to address diverse mission requirements across a variety of platforms.
defense-update.com
[16] Details in following link:
https://www.slideshare.net/TheDEWLi...60-438c-8ad4-6c5bebc4c551&v=&b=&from_search=1
[17] Quoted from following link:
Digital Techniques Train Cognitive EW Systems
In cognitive electronic-warfare systems, designers are recruiting artificial intelligence and machine learning for intelligent, automated responses to detected threats.
[18] Quoted from following link:
Electronic warfare: the past, present and future - Global Defence Technology | Issue 121 | March 2021
We explore the latest developments in electronic warfare with a defence prime and a small systems integrator breaking into the market.
defence.nridigital.com
[19] Related information in following link:
https://www.tealgroup.com/index.php...item/an-alq-135-v-tews-an-alq-239-dews-epawss
[20] Adopted from following link:
https://www.airforcemag.com/article/f-15ex-vs-f-35a/
[21] Confirmed in following link:
Why is GE's F110-129 the Best Engine for USAF's F-15EX? | Air & Space Forces Magazine
The Air Force is rolling out the newest version of the F-15, the new F-15EX Eagle II, and the benefits of the GE F110-129 have never been plainer.
www.airforcemag.com
[22] Details in following link:
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zo...f-15e-strike-eagle-in-this-exhilarating-video
