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The United States Department of the Air Force has reached a price agreement in the E-7A Wedgetail weapon system rapid prototype program with US defence prime Boeing.
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The agreement, paving the way for two operationally representative prototype E-7A weapons systems, represents an undefinitised contract action which has now been definitised, with a total contract value of US$2,560,846,860.
The rapid prototyping program integrates US-based mission systems into existing E-7 airborne platforms to meet DAF requirements while simultaneously ensuring interoperability with coalition partners already operating the E-7.
E-7 airborne early warning and control aircraft, manufactured by Boeing, are typically crewed by a pilot, co-pilot, air battle managers and airborne electronics analysts.
“This agreement is a significant win for our warfighters, paving the way for ensuring the Air Force’s ability to provide advanced airborne moving target indication in the coming years,” Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Andrew Hunter said.
“It is also an exemplar of our ability to leverage and support the expertise and investments of our partners and allies to support our common security objectives.”
The E-7A provides advanced airborne battle management and command and control and moving target indication capabilities. Its advanced multi-role electronically scanned array radar will enhance airborne battle management, providing improved situational awareness and enabling long-range kill chains with potential peer adversaries.
Until the E-7A is fielded, the DAF will continue relying on the E-3 AWACS, as ongoing E-3 modernisation efforts meet the 2022 National Defense Strategy intent. The E-3 will continue worldwide BMC2/AMTI operations as required by the DAF and the Department of Defense.
The E-7A rapid prototyping program will inform a planned production decision in FY2025–26. The two operationally representative prototype aircraft are planned to be delivered in FY2027–28.
