Boeing

ST. LOUIS, Oct. 30, 2008 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $238 million System Development and Demonstration (SDD) contract by the U.S. Air Force to modernize the radar system on F-15E fighter aircraft.

"The Radar Modernization Program (RMP) will ensure that the F-15E continues its multirole supremacy for decades," said Mark Bass, Boeing F-15 Program vice president. "The supportability improvements and tactical flexibility inherent in the RMP take the F-15E capability to a higher level."

The RMP will incorporate an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) antenna with more-supportable radar electronics. The AESA replaces the APG-70 radar currently integrated on the F-15E, improving radar reliability, maintainability and performance while reducing support costs. When integrated into the F-15E weapons system, the AESA radar will improve detection and tracking of enemy targets, including small targets.

During the SDD phase, Boeing team member Raytheon will produce developmental and flight-test units and support Boeing's integration of the AESA into the F-15E. The integration activity will take place at Boeing facilities in St. Louis prior to the developmental and initial operational test and evaluation flight programs. Initial operational capability is expected in fiscal year 2014 with 12 operational aircraft.