**CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand** — Boeing’s F-15 jet is experiencing a revival in Asia, as multiple countries update their legacy fleets while another considers the latest F-15EX model.
**South Korea** is the second Asian nation to announce upgrades for its F-15 fleet. On **November 19**, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) approved a significant **$6.2 billion** upgrade for all **59 Korean F-15K fighters**. This proposed package includes advanced technology such as the Advanced Display Core Processor II mission computers, AN/APG-82(v)1 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars, AN/ALQ-250 electronic warfare suites, and AN/AAR-57 missile warning systems.
Korean Air will conduct depot-level maintenance for the F-15K, indicating potential involvement in the upgrade, which is scheduled from **2024 to 2034**. The F-15Ks are equipped with weapons like the Taurus KEPD 350 and AGM-84H/K SLAM-ER cruise missiles, playing a crucial role in South Korea’s “kill chain” strategy to deter North Korean threats.
**Japan** was the first Asian country to initiate upgrades to its F-15 fleet. Boeing is under contract with **Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)** to modernize **68 F-15Js**, working through the U.S. Air Force. A Boeing spokesperson confirmed that they would provide retrofit drawings, equipment, and support for advanced mission systems integration as part of the U.S. Air Force Foreign Military Sales contract. Japan’s modernized F-15Js will receive the same radar and mission computers as the F-15Ks, alongside ALQ-239 electronic warfare systems, and the capability to deploy weapons like the JASSM-ER standoff missile.
Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency reported that its upgrade program is on track, despite earlier cost and scheduling challenges. On **March 18**, Japan signed a letter of acceptance for the Lockheed Martin JASSM-ER, which is essential for strengthening its standoff defense capabilities against potential threats.
**Singapore** remains the only other Asian user of F-15s, but it has yet to announce an upgrade for its F-15SG fleet. Nonetheless, Boeing noted that Japan’s modernization efforts are relevant to current and future F-15 operators.
In a demonstration of the F-15’s enduring appeal—48 years after its original service date—**Indonesia** has expressed interest in acquiring **new F-15EXs**. Boeing indicated that it is working with both the U.S. and Indonesian governments to facilitate this effort through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) process. On **August 21, 2023**, Boeing announced signing a memorandum of understanding with Jakarta for the potential sale of **up to 24 F-15EXs**, although specifics regarding pricing and timeline were not disclosed. Indonesia must first secure funding for its purchase of **42 Rafale fighters** from France.
Confidence in the F-15 is further underscored by the U.S. Air Force’s announcement on **July 3** concerning the deployment of **36 F-15EXs** to **Okinawa, Japan**, intended to replace the existing **48 F-15C/Ds** stationed there.
*Gordon Arthur is an Asia correspondent for Defense News, based in New Zealand after two decades in Hong Kong, covering military exercises and defense exhibitions in about 20 countries across the Asia-Pacific region.*
