Boeing reports that the U.S. Air Force has granted the F-15E Radar Modernization Program (RMP) approval to begin Low Rate Initial Production 2 (LRIP 2) of 10 APG-82(V)1 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar systems. "This is a great step forward for the Radar Modernization Program," said Roger Besancenez, Boeing F-15 Program vice president.

"With the F-15E RMP, Boeing is providing new technology and improved system reliability to ensure the Air Force has all the capability necessary to achieve total air-to-air and air-to-ground dominance well into the future."

Boeing received Milestone C authorization for six systems under LRIP 1 in September 2011. Installation of the Raytheon-built AESA radar systems is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2013.

The RMP is undergoing an aggressive flight test program at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. Boeing and Raytheon are analyzing data throughout the test phase to verify that the system's performance meets the customer's rigorous specifications.

The RMP is the latest active F-15E fleet modification that the Air Force has identified in its Modernization Sustainment Plan.

The RMP APG-82(V)1 AESA radar will replace the F-15E strike fighter's current APG-70 Mechanically Scanned Array radar. The AESA provides improved radar reliability, maintainability and performance, as well as reduced support costs. When integrated into the F-15E weapons system, the AESA radar will significantly improve detection and tracking of enemy targets.

Other RMP elements include a wideband radome, modified environment control system, and modified radio frequency tunable filters, which allow the radar and electronic warfare system to operate simultaneously.