USAF to buy F-15X?
It is being claimed by the now normal, 'anonymous sources' that the USAF is to buy 12 F-15X (initially, perhaps more later?) to replace some of the ageing ANG F-15Cs. Previously, the USAF had stated categorically that it had no intentions to buy any new version of the F-15 and that it's efforts and money would be concentrated on the F-35A and lesser upgrades to the existing F-15 and F-16 fleets. Could this be a step change in thinking of going with a mixed fleet of long range, missile trucks to complement the F-22/35, or, as is suggested in the article, down to the machinations of a former Boeing exec who is now in an influential position at the Puzzle Palace? If the story turns out to be true, and the purchase is only going to be 12 new build airframes, then that seems to be an enormous waste of money and perhaps a missed opportunity too?
What say you all?
-RP