SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India has long been the largest operator of the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, a heavyweight fighter jet that offers unmatched versatility, particularly in carrying heavy weaponry such as the BrahMos-A and Rudram series aeroballistic missiles. Despite its strengths, the Indian Air Force (IAF) appears increasingly hesitant to pursue additional heavy-class fighters due to their high operational costs and logistical challenges. However, Boeing remains optimistic, proposing its F-15EX fighter jet for India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.
The F-15EX, Boeing’s latest iteration of the iconic F-15 platform, is designed to carry an unprecedented payload, a feature that Boeing believes could resonate with the IAF’s requirements. A Boeing official speaking to idrw.org highlighted that the F-15EX could operate as a “weapons truck” in support of forward-operating 5th-generation aircraft, such as the F-35 or India’s future Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
In addition to its payload capacity, the F-15EX offers cutting-edge features as jet is now designed to launch hypersonic missiles, giving it an edge in long-range strike missions. Equipped with advanced processors, the F-15EX provides superior situational awareness and quicker decision-making in dynamic combat scenarios. These features position the F-15EX as a versatile platform capable of complementing India’s 5th-generation fighters by operating in secondary roles, such as missile delivery and air dominance support.
India’s Su-30MKI, with its ability to carry large, strategic payloads, has given the IAF unique capabilities that are rare among other air forces. The Su-30MKI’s compatibility with heavy munitions like the BrahMos-A and upcoming Rudram-3 and Rudram-4 missiles provides a significant strategic advantage, making it a critical asset for deep-strike missions.
Boeing is banking on these similarities, arguing that the F-15EX offers a comparable capability while introducing advanced avionics, faster speeds, and superior payload capacity. While payload capacity is an advantage, the IAF’s evolving doctrine emphasizes flexibility and multi-role efficiency, potentially favoring lighter or medium-weight platforms.
The F-15EX represents a compelling option for the IAF’s MRFA tender, offering a blend of unmatched payload capacity, advanced avionics, and hypersonic weapon integration. However, whether these features can outweigh the concerns of operational costs and align with India’s strategic priorities remains to be seen.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.