USAF selects E-7

The U.S. Air Force has officially announced its decision to select the Boeing E-7 to replace the E-3 AWACS.

A Royal Australian air force E-7A Wedgetail departs after receiving fuel from a 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, July 3, 2017. The E-7A can control the tactical battle space, providing direction for fighter aircraft, surface combatants and land based elements, as well as supporting aircraft such as tankers and intelligence platforms. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Battles)


The service plans to issue a contract in FY 2023 to procure a rapid prototype aircraft that is to be delivered in FY 2027.

A second prototype will be procured in FY 2024 and a production decision will be made in FY 2025.

The flying branch is also proposing to retire 15 E-3s in the new budget and fund the money towards the E-7 program.

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