F-15 PROGRAMS

Abstract

The F-15 is the most versatile fighter in the world today. The F-15A-D continues to provide air superiority with an undefeated and unmatched aerial combat record. The F-15E retains this air superiority capability and adds systems, such as advanced imaging and targeting systems, to meet the requirement for all-weather, deep penetration, and night/under-the-weather, air-to-surface attack. Configured with conformal fuel tanks (CFTs), the F-15E deploys worldwide with minimal tanker support and arrives combat-ready. A mainstay in operations both domestic and abroad, upgrades to the F-15 (avionics, armament, airframe, and engines) are critical to maintaining combat viability (lethality, survivability, and supportability). Projected to remain in service past 2030, avionics modernization is key to long-term weapon system viability. This modernization is built on a foundation of technical studies (both internal to the Air Force and through outside contractors), forestalling obsolescence, exploiting proven technological advances, and leveraging new technology. Major avionics upgrades center around radar modernization (both hardware and software upgrades) and the exploitation of enhanced capability via wideband radome, precision timing, data delivery and processing technology, precision registration systems, cockpit Head Up Display (HUD) and instrumentation digitization and modernization, central computer processing power increases, digital mission event recording systems and an infrared (IR) based fire control system. Funds are also used, as required, to resolve Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortage (DMSMS) issues. The proliferation of fourth generation enemy aircraft and sophisticated "double-digit" anti-aircraft missile systems pose a significant threat to F-15 survivability. A fully integrated electronic warfare suite holds the promise of providing survivability as well as expanded electronic attack capability. Nearly all improvements are linked to an aircraft operational flight program update schedule that works to integrate new capabilities with the airframe. These updates are a responsive way to increase the offensive and defensive capability and survivability of the F-15. Given the comprehensiveness of these changes, significant flight test will be required. Incorporation of corresponding spiral and/or phased technology/equipment improvements that include support equipment, mission planning systems, and training device upgrades will improve performance, supportability, and line replaceable unit (LRU) throughput. This program is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development because this budget activity includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production and anticipate production funding in the current or subsequent fiscal year.

Document Details

• Document Type: R2 Budgetary Justification
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2012
• Source ID: 0207134F_7_3600_PB_2012
• Change Summary Explanation: FY 2010: funding was available due to delays in the IRST and ADCP II programs FY 2012: The Total Adjustment of -$4.672 million was derived from increases for F-15E Radar Enhancement program; terminating the Infrared Search and Track (IRST) program; and adjusting for higher Air Force priorities
• Service Agency Name: Air Force

Entities

Organizations

• United States Air Force

Tags

Communities of Interest

• Air Platforms
• Electronic Warfare

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

• Aerial Warfare
• Air Force
• Air Power
• Aircrafts
• Airframes
• Control Systems
• Cost Analysis
• Electronic Warfare
• Electronically Scanned Array
• Engineering
• Fire Control Systems
• Line Of Sight
• Molecular Orbital Theory
• Test And Evaluation
• Training
• Training Devices
• Warfare

Readers

• Aerospace Engineering
• Military Science and Technology Research and Modernization.

Technology Areas

• Microelectronics