The U.S. Department of the Air Force has successfully negotiated a price agreement with Boeing for the E-7A Wedgetail weapon system rapid prototype program. This paves the way for the delivery of two operationally representative prototype E-7A weapons systems.
The Undefinitized Contract Action has now been definitized, with a total contract value of $2,560,846,860.
"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," said Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Andrew Hunter. "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 rapid prototyping program integrates U.S.-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.
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 modernization 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 FY26. The two operationally representative prototype aircraft are planned to be delivered in FY28.
