A significant part of the contract also includes production start-up costs as well as manufacturing equipment and other spares. Six or more systems are expected to be delivered annually to the Guard in coming years for a planned total of at least 48.

"The contract ensures our warfighters get what they deserve, which is the very best technology to ensure they can complete their missions and return home safely," said Ramon Estrada, director of F-15 AESA radar programs for Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems.

"The significant technology advancements of the F-15 APG-63(V)3 AESA radar allow Air Force and Air National Guard units to maintain their operational edge. This radar also provides revolutionary capabilities increasing the combat capability of the F-15 platform for the coming decades."

The contract award follows the successful completion of the flight test program with Boeing and the Air Force, which subjected the radar to rigorous developmental and operational testing and evaluation.

Air Force F-15s became operational with the world's first tactical AESA radar systems in December 2000. Raytheon has been a partner on the F-15 for more than 35 years.

"Raytheon's newest AESA radar system offers unparalleled targeting, tracking and situational awareness capabilities that will provide the Air Force and Air National Guard true force multiplication," Estrada said. "From takeoff to landing, this is a system Air Force and Air National Guard pilots can trust time and again."

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