USAF to buy 80 F-15X

[davidpt40]

Before this pandemic hit, the USAF said they were going to purchase 80 F-15X aircraft.  Starting with an initial order of 8, the remaining 72 would be delivered over five years.  It would come in two versions, the CX (single seat) and EX (twin seat). 

Here's the Popular Mechanics article on it:  https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a26413900/air-force-buying-new-f-15/

Who knows what is going to happen now with changes in budgetary spending. 

[Shuffler]

The 2 seater will be out in today's society. 

[Arlo]

No ..... tail ..... hook. Nuff said. 

[Puma44]

The 2 seater will be out in today's society. 

Commonly referred to as a “Bus” or “Family Model”.

[Puma44]

No ..... tail ..... hook. Nuff said. 

Actually, the Eagle does have a tail hook.

[Ramesis]

No ..... tail ..... hook. Nuff said. 

Exactly 

[TequilaChaser]

Has there been any flight data posted on these newly built F-15X series...

I know they have fixed the bracing channels to where the canopy/capsule could possibly break away after fatigue stress fractures over long periods of use on all the older F-15s...

and these new F-15X models have newer jet engines that have more thrust verses the older models

[mora]

Also hardpoints for 22 missiles and FBW controls. A very different beast.

[eagl]

They're going to be amazing planes to fly.  I got to fly the -229 powered F-15Es at lakenheath, very very powerful.  Those single seat birds will have amazing performance.  Still won't have F-22 maneuverability, but as an interceptor they'll still be world class.  The addition of the newer avionics and greater missile loadout will be useful too.

I think a stretch F-22 with updated materials and engineering to make them easier/cheaper to build and maintain would be an ideal solution and could possibly save money on the next fighter procurement program, but that isn't going to happen because congress.