The F-15 2040C concept is an extension of the Silent Eagle idea put forth to South Korea, focusing primarily on the most advanced air capabilities and lethality while also incorporating certain low-observable upgrades
As was previously reported, Israel wants to acquire a squadron of F-15s from Boeing. In fact, an upgraded version of the Eagle would be the ideal aircraft to replace the Israeli Air Force’s (IAF) older F-15 fleet as well as to fulfill the need for a second combat aircraft to flank the F-35 stealth fighter.
It is noteworthy that no other information regarding the aircraft’s potential attributes has surfaced, other than the fact that it has a two-person crew, an advanced active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, and advanced attack capabilities.
However, Flight Global reported on March 17, 2017, that as Israel wants its new F-15s to carry more missiles, IAF upgraded Eagles may adopt the 2040C design that Boeing promoted in 2016.
The proposed F-15 2040C is envisioned as an F-15C upgrade that would enable the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to supplement the F-22 in the Air-Superiority role with a dependable, tried-and-true and reasonably priced combat aircraft. The 2040C concept is a development of the Silent Eagle idea put forth to South Korea, concentrating primarily on the most advanced air capabilities and lethality while making certain low-observable upgrades. The 2040C would have an upgraded APG-63(v)3 AESA, an infrared search and track system, quad weapon racks that could hold up to 16 air-to-air missiles, a passive/active warning survival system, conformal fuel tanks (CFTs), and a “Talon HATE” communications pod that would allow data transfer with the F-22.
Although Israeli discussions with the US Department of Defense would be focused on a potential 20 to 25-aircraft agreement, the choice of whether to purchase additional F-35s or F-15s will only be decided after getting cabinet clearance to purchase new aircraft.
Photo by Boeing