Two F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft equipped with the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Survivability System, or EPAWSS, arrived at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, Jan. 16, 2025, marking the delivery of the first F-15E Strike Eagles integrated with one of the world's most advanced electronic warfare suites.
The upgraded F-15Es have been assigned to RAF Lakenheath's F-15E fighter squadrons, with one going to the 494th Fighter Squadron and the other to the 492nd FS ensuring both units benefit and train with the F-15E's enhanced capabilities.
"Having EPAWSS operational at RAF Lakenheath significantly enhances our ability to detect and counter threats, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our crews," said Lt. Col. Timothy Causey, 494th FS commander. "This advanced electronic warfare system, when combined with the F-35s, acts as a powerful force multiplier, transforming our operations and amplifying the 48th Fighter Wing's impact in the battlespace."
The Air Force has been working to modernize the F-15E fleet, ensuring the aircraft remain effective against evolving threats. The EPAWSS upgrade is designed to enhance the F-15E's radar warning, geolocation, situational awareness and self-defense capabilities, enabling the fighters to survive and operate in highly contested environments.
The new system boosts pilot's situational awareness by autonomously detecting, identifying and locating threat systems. The system can then take proactive measures to deny, degrade and disrupt those threats.
The delivery of these upgraded F-15E Strike Eagles represents a major milestone in the Air Force's ongoing efforts to modernize its fourth-generation fleet. By equipping these aircraft with advanced electronic warfare capabilities, the 48th FW is ensuring their readiness for operations in austere environments and supporting NATO's missions across Europe and the Pacific.
