F-15 EPAW

The F-15 Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) program is a major Air Force initiative under the Aircraft Procurement, Air Force appropriation, specifically focused on the modification of in-service tactical aircraft. The primary goal of this program is to replace the legacy F-15 Tactical Electronic Warfare System (TEWS), which has become functionally obsolete, with a modern, integrated electronic warfare suite. EPAWSS is designed to significantly enhance the survivability and operational effectiveness of the F-15E fleet in contested and highly contested environments by providing advanced electronic detection, identification, geolocation, electronic countermeasures (jamming), and countermeasures dispensing (chaff/flares).

The EPAWSS F-15E Capability Improvement line item specifically supports the procurement and installation of EPAWSS hardware on F-15E aircraft, aligning with the Air Force's Future Force Structure. The program's objectives include both procurement and installation of Group A (installation kits) and Group B (equipment) hardware, as well as retrofit kits for test aircraft. The program leverages both contractor and organic installation capabilities, with modifications occurring at the Contractor Modification Facility (CMF) in San Antonio, TX, and the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex (WR-ALC) at Robins AFB, GA. This dual-path approach is intended to maximize throughput and ensure timely fleet upgrades.

The System Engineering/Program Management (SEPM) component of the budget covers both Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) and Full Rate Production (FRP) contracts. These efforts include ongoing engineering support, program oversight, and management of production and installation activities. The program also addresses Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS), ensuring long-term sustainability and mitigating risks associated with parts obsolescence. Funding is allocated for production non-recurring engineering (NRE), which includes software and operating system upgrades, as well as efforts to enhance maintenance data gathering capabilities.

The Installation and Support portion of the budget encompasses a range of activities necessary for successful fielding of EPAWSS. This includes interim contractor support (ICS) with field service representatives at operational locations, investments in infrastructure to increase repair line capacity, and procurement of tooling and support equipment to expand organic installation capability at WR-ALC. Additional support activities include updates to technical orders and manuals, technician and operator training, and repair of government-furnished property and supplemental tooling.

The Production Over & Above category is intended to fund work discovered during modification that falls outside the EPAWSS scope but is necessary to return aircraft to service. The program also includes funding for standup of contractor and organic repair lines, ensuring that maintenance and repair activities do not impact concurrent hardware production. This comprehensive approach supports the long-term operational readiness of the F-15E fleet.

The Program Management and Change Orders (OGCs/PMA/ECOs) line item provides resources for program office requirements and change orders, enabling the program to remain responsive to evolving requirements and technical challenges. The FY 2026 request reflects a reduction in advisory and assistance services, in alignment with Executive Order 14222, which aims to promote government efficiency and cost savings.

The F-15 EPAWSS program is a critical capability improvement initiative that ensures the F-15E remains viable and effective against modern threats, including advanced enemy aircraft and sophisticated anti-aircraft missile systems. By modernizing the electronic warfare suite and aligning the service life of EPAWSS with that of the aircraft, the Air Force is investing in the long-term lethality and survivability of its tactical fighter fleet. The program is operating within its Acquisition Program Baseline, having achieved key milestones including Milestone C and Full Rate Production approval, and is on track to complete the Engineering & Manufacturing Development phase by the end of FY 2025.