Boeing gets approval from US government to offer F-15EX jet to India

US aerospace major Boeing on Thursday said it received permission from the US government to offer its F-15EX multi-role combat jet to the Indian Air Force.

Ankur Kanaglekar, the head of fighters sales of Boeing Defence and Space in India, said the F-15EX can offer a future-ready and multi-role solution to the IAF in the form of unmatched payload and performance.

Interacting with a group of journalists, he said Boeing has received marketing licence from the US government for the F-15EX, paving the way for its supply to India. F-15EX is the latest and most advanced version of the multi-role, all-weather and day and night versions of the F-15 aircraft family.

In April 2019, the IAF issued an RFI (request for information) or initial tender to acquire 114 jets at a cost of around USD 18 billion, which is billed as one of the world’s biggest military procurements in recent years.

The top contenders for the



deal include Lockheed’s F-21, Dassault Aviation’s Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, Russian aircraft MiG 35 and Saab’s Gripen.

The company said the F-15EX will be exhibited at the next edition of Aero India in Bengaluru beginning next week.

Boeing also shared its 2021 growth strategy for the Indian market and exuded confidence in the fundamentals of India’s aviation and defence industry.

The company reiterated its commitment to being trusted partners to the Indian armed forces and airline customers as the world weathers the challenges of the pandemic.

“India’s aerospace industry is persevering through the global pandemic, which has brought significant challenges. The nation’s fundamental growth drivers remain resilient and robust, making India an attractive business destination globally, and Boeing is committed to the advancement of India’s aerospace industry,” said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India.