F-15EX vs. F-35

Attribute	F-15EX	F-35
Manufacturer	Boeing	Lockheed Martin
Role	Air superiority fighter	Multirole fighter
First flight	2020	2006
Unit cost	$87.7 million	$89.2 million
Max speed	Mach 2.5	Mach 1.6
Range	3,450 mi	1,200 mi

Introduction

When it comes to modern fighter jets, two of the most prominent aircraft in the United States Air Force are the F-15EX and the F-35. Both aircraft have their own unique attributes and capabilities that make them valuable assets to the military. In this article, we will compare the key features of the F-15EX and the F-35 to better understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Performance

The F-15EX is a twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter aircraft known for its speed and agility. It has a top speed of Mach 2.5 and can reach altitudes of over 65,000 feet. The F-35, on the other hand, is a single-engine, multirole fighter designed for stealth and versatility. It has a top speed of Mach 1.6 and can reach altitudes of over 50,000 feet. While the F-15EX is faster and can fly higher than the F-35, the F-35 is designed to be more stealthy and adaptable in various combat scenarios.

Stealth

One of the key differences between the F-15EX and the F-35 is their stealth capabilities. The F-35 is specifically designed to be a stealth aircraft, with features such as internal weapons bays and advanced radar-absorbing materials that reduce its radar signature. This allows the F-35 to operate in contested environments without being detected. In contrast, the F-15EX is not a stealth aircraft and relies on its speed and maneuverability for defense. While the F-15EX can carry a larger payload than the F-35, its lack of stealth makes it more vulnerable to enemy radar systems.

Avionics

Both the F-15EX and the F-35 are equipped with state-of-the-art avionics systems that provide pilots with advanced situational awareness and combat capabilities. The F-35 features the AN/APG-81 AESA radar, which provides superior target tracking and detection capabilities. It also has advanced sensor fusion technology that integrates data from multiple sources to give pilots a comprehensive view of the battlefield. The F-15EX, on the other hand, is equipped with the AN/APG-82 AESA radar, which offers similar capabilities to the F-35's radar. While the F-35 may have a slight edge in terms of avionics technology, both aircraft are equipped with advanced systems that enhance their combat effectiveness.

Cost

One of the major differences between the F-15EX and the F-35 is their cost. The F-15EX is a more affordable option compared to the F-35, with a unit cost of around $80 million. This makes the F-15EX an attractive choice for countries looking to acquire a high-performance fighter at a lower price point. In contrast, the F-35 has a unit cost of over $100 million, making it one of the most expensive fighter jets in the world. While the F-35 may offer more advanced capabilities than the F-15EX, its high cost can be a deterrent for some potential buyers.

Combat Capabilities

Both the F-15EX and the F-35 are capable of performing a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance. The F-15EX is known for its air-to-air combat capabilities, with a large weapons payload and long-range radar systems that make it a formidable opponent in aerial engagements. The F-35, on the other hand, is designed to be a multirole fighter that can excel in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Its stealth capabilities and advanced sensor systems allow it to operate in contested environments and strike targets with precision. While the F-15EX may have an edge in terms of air-to-air combat, the F-35's versatility and stealth make it a valuable asset in modern warfare.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the F-15EX and the F-35 are both advanced fighter jets with unique attributes that make them valuable assets to the military. The F-15EX is known for its speed and agility, while the F-35 is designed for stealth and versatility. While the F-15EX may have advantages in terms of speed and payload capacity, the F-35's stealth capabilities and advanced avionics systems give it an edge in modern combat scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the F-15EX and the F-35 will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the military in question.