E-7

The E-7 Program is a major Air Force research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative designed to replace the aging E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS). The E-3, first fielded in the 1970s, has reached the end of its service life and is increasingly costly and difficult to maintain. The E-7 will serve as the Air Force's principal airborne command and control platform, providing critical capabilities for the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC). It will enhance the United States' ability to detect, track, and manage airborne threats in complex operational environments.

The primary goal of the E-7A line item is to develop and field a modern, reliable, and sustainable airborne battle management and command and control aircraft. The E-7A is based on a highly modified Boeing 737-700 Next Generation (737NG) airframe, equipped with a Northrop Grumman Multi-Role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) radar and enhanced power generation systems. Objectives include completing aircraft modifications for test and evaluation, developing and modernizing hardware and software to meet U.S. cybersecurity and program protection standards, and ensuring navigation and communication systems comply with GPS M-Code and Narrowband SATCOM mandates.

The program also aims to design and build mission crew trainers, deployable mission support systems, and contractor and government system integration laboratories. These efforts support the integration, testing, and certification of the E-7A, including both Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and military airworthiness certification. Additionally, the program funds analysis and development activities to address future requirements and ensure the platform remains adaptable to evolving threats and operational needs.

The E-7 C2ISR (Command and Control, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) component focuses on investigating and developing advanced capabilities for the E-7 weapon system. This includes research into advanced sensors, communications, self-protection systems, and enhanced cyber protection. The objective is to ensure the E-7 can effectively integrate with joint and coalition forces in a net-centric environment and remain resilient against emerging threats and obsolescence. C2ISR activities also support pre-systems acquisition, risk reduction, and analytical comparisons of alternative solutions to meet established capability needs.

Management and execution of the E-7 program are overseen by the Program Executive Officer for Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR) and Special Operations Forces (SOF) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, with contracting support provided by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. The program utilizes a Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA) rapid prototyping approach, with Boeing as the primary contractor, to accelerate the development and fielding of prototype units in a high-fidelity, realistic operating environment.

The budget line also includes funding for civilian pay expenses necessary to manage and deliver weapon system capability, as well as support for organic software development, government-furnished equipment, and test and evaluation activities. Program Support Costs (PSC) cover program management, engineering, logistics, and other essential functions to ensure successful execution and transition to production. Adjustments to the budget reflect congressional actions, reprogrammings, and prioritization within the Department of Defense.