The 142nd Fighter Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard at Portland Air National Guard Base has received its newest aircraft, the ninth F-15EX Eagle II, marking the first delivery from the second production lot. Boeing Defense confirmed that the aircraft, with military registration 21-009 and factory number EX-09, has officially joined the unit’s growing fleet of upgraded fighter jets. This delivery represents an important step in the U.S. Air Force’s modernization effort as it replaces its aging F-15C/D models.
The F-15EX Eagle II builds on the foundation of the classic F-15 air superiority fighter but brings it into the modern era with updated systems and technology. The delivery of EX-09 adds to the 142nd Fighter Wing’s growing fleet, which already includes EX-07 and EX-08 from the initial production batch. These aircraft will strengthen the unit’s capacity for homeland security operations and mission deployments. The arrival of this aircraft supports the U.S. Air Force’s ongoing shift to advanced platforms designed to face today’s threats and future challenges.
The F-15EX represents more than just a new aircraft. It reflects a shift in how fighter jets are built and operated. Its structure continues the durability of earlier F-15 models, but its features include updated technologies that improve agility, maintainability, and adaptability. One of its central upgrades is the Open Mission Systems (OMS) architecture. This feature allows the aircraft to receive software and hardware updates faster than its predecessors.
The F-15EX also uses a fly-by-wire system, replacing older mechanical flight controls with digital systems that offer better responsiveness and ease of maintenance. Another key improvement is the Eagle Passive/Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS), which enables the aircraft to detect and counter various electronic threats. The AN/APG-82(V)1 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar gives the aircraft improved target tracking and engagement abilities.
The new airframe can carry up to 29,500 pounds of weapons and supports up to 22 air-to-air missiles, giving it strong capabilities for both air combat and strike missions. These features make the aircraft more adaptable to different mission needs while also improving its survivability and effectiveness in complex threat environments.
F-15EX strategic role in national defense
The Oregon Air National Guard’s 142nd Fighter Wing plays an important role in defending the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Based at Portland ANG Base, it is tasked with Aerospace Control Alert missions under NORAD, which include identifying and intercepting possible airspace violations. As the first operational unit to receive and deploy the F-15EX, the wing leads efforts to bring new technology into National Guard operations.
With the arrival of EX-09, the unit strengthens its readiness and supports the Air Force’s goal of preparing for more complex air combat environments. The upgraded aircraft will allow the 142nd to handle evolving regional and global threats with greater speed and efficiency. The Air Force plans to receive up to 48 F-15EX aircraft through three production lots under its current contract with Boeing. This aircraft is the first from Lot 2, showing Boeing’s continued delivery pace and production capability.
Enhanced Mission Capabilities and Longevity
The F-15EX’s OMS architecture gives it an edge over the legacy F-15C/D models by supporting the fast addition of sensors, software patches, and modern weapons. This digital foundation, powered by next-generation processors, helps the aircraft remain useful as threats change and technology develops. Its large-area display, similar to the one in the F-35, along with a helmet-mounted display, allows pilots to manage mission data more easily and respond to threats quickly.
With shared radar systems between the F-15C/D and F-15EX, the EX benefits from better computing and integration, allowing it to use the radar’s full capabilities. Its network features and data-sharing abilities make it a strong part of larger combat networks, giving it a role in both control and engagement missions.
The aircraft also carries nearly three times more air-to-air missiles than the older model, along with long-range precision strike and next-generation hypersonic weapons. Extended range through conformal fuel tanks and a projected lifespan of 20,000 flight hours—double that of older models—adds to the aircraft’s value. This longer service life reduces structural maintenance needs and lowers long-term costs.
The F-15EX Eagle II gives the U.S. Air Force a reliable and highly capable fighter that fits current and future needs. For the 142nd Fighter Wing and other units receiving these aircraft, the F-15EX supports continued dominance in contested airspace with its upgraded features and mission flexibility.
