The iconic F-15 fighter is enjoying a revival in Asia, with modernization programs in South Korea and Japan, and growing interest in Indonesia.
Introduced 48 years ago, the F-15 remains a mainstay of Asia’s air forces, thanks to ambitious modernization programs. South Korea and Japan are investing in major technological upgrades, integrating advanced systems such as AESA radars and electronic warfare suites. At the same time, Indonesia is considering the acquisition of F-15EXs, underlining the relevance of this aircraft in modern defense strategies. These developments strengthen the American presence in Asia and adapt the F-15 to current threats.
F-15K modernization in South Korea: a strategic investment
South Korea has launched a modernization program for its fleet of 59 F-15Ks, approved on November 19, 2023 by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The project, estimated at 6.2 billion euros, will run from 2024 to 2034, and aims to significantly improve the operational capabilities of these aircraft.
Enhancements include:
- Advanced Display Core II processor, increasing mission processing capacity.
- AN/APG-82(v)1 AESA radar, offering increased range and accuracy for threat detection.
- AN/ALQ-250 electronic warfare suite, optimizing protection against electronic threats.
- The AN/AAR-57 missile warning system, enhancing early detection of enemy projectiles.
These upgrades also incorporate advanced weaponry, such as the Taurus KEPD 350 and AGM-84H/K SLAM-ER cruise missiles, essential to South Korea’s “chain of destruction” strategy, designed to rapidly deter and neutralize any North Korean threat.
The program, supported by Korean Air, which provides depot-level maintenance, illustrates the importance of this fighter in Seoul’s defense. In 2022, South Korea devoted 2.8% of its GDP to defense, one of the highest budgets in Asia, confirming the strategic importance of these investments.
Japanese F-15Js: a major transformation
Japan, the first Asian country to modernize its 68 F-15Js, is collaborating with Boeing and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) via a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract signed in 2019. The program, estimated at 3.5 billion euros, aims to bring the F-15J up to F-15EX standards.
Technological upgrades include systems similar to those on the South Korean F-15K, with additional capabilities to integrate JASSM-ER missiles, enabling long-range strikes of over 900 km. These missiles strengthen Japan’s pre-emptive defense capability against regional threats, notably those emanating from China and North Korea.
The Japanese program encountered initial challenges, including cost overruns. However, Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency has confirmed that the project is now “on track”. In March 2023, Tokyo signed an agreement with Lockheed Martin to ensure the timely integration of the JASSM-ER.
Indonesia’s growing interest in the F-15EX
Indonesia, which is currently modernizing its air force with the purchase of 42 Rafales, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Boeing for the acquisition of 24 F-15EXs. These aircraft, designed to incorporate advanced technologies and respond to a variety of missions, would complement the Rafales by providing additional strike capability.
The cost of the program has not yet been revealed, but an F-15EX is estimated at 87 million euros per aircraft, excluding operational costs. Jakarta will have to finalize the financing of the Rafales before going ahead with this acquisition. This move underlines Indonesia’s ambition to balance its strategic partnerships with France and the United States, while strengthening its deterrence in the face of escalating tensions in the South China Sea.
American deployment in Asia: a strategic reinforcement
The United States, convinced of the continued relevance of the F-15, announced in July 2023 the deployment of 36 F-15EXs to Okinawa to replace the older F-15C/Ds. This decision reflects a strategy to maintain a robust military presence in the face of growing Chinese activity in the Indo-Pacific region.
The F-15EX, designed to last until 2040, incorporates networked combat capabilities, advanced sensor systems and an increased payload, capable of carrying up to 13.6 tons of weaponry. These features make it a key tool for air superiority and precision strike missions.
The revival of the F-15 in Asia illustrates the importance of this aircraft in modern defense strategies. Modernizations in South Korea and Japan, combined with Indonesia’s growing interest in the F-15EX, confirm the continued relevance of this fighter in a tense geopolitical context. By integrating advanced technologies, the F-15 adapts to today’s threats, strengthening regional deterrence and consolidating alliances between the United States and its Asian partners.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.