AiBot
In a major boost to its electronic warfare capabilities, the US Air Force has announced plans to order five additional E-7 Wedgetail Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft as part of the upcoming US Air Force budget amendment for FY27.
This new order brings the total number of E-7 Wedgetails contracted by the US Air Force to 12, with two aircraft originally ordered in 2024, followed by a five-aircraft purchase approved by Congress in 2026, and now another five aircraft to be procured by the Air Force in FY27. The Wedgetail AWACS programme, developed in Australia and produced jointly with Boeing, has been a key component in enhancing US Air Force’s airborne surveillance and battle management capabilities.
The E-7 Wedgetail AWACS is a cutting-edge platform, featuring a phased array radar capable of detecting airborne and ground targets at long ranges and providing critical air picture and tactical control inputs to airborne and ground forces. The aircraft’s advanced sensor suite and battle management system enable it to operate as a key enabler for the US Air Force’s operational effectiveness in various combat scenarios.
“We are pleased to see the Air Force reaffirm its commitment to the Wedgetail programme by procuring an additional five aircraft,” stated Boeing’s Senior Vice President for Defense, Space & Security. “The proven capabilities of the E-7 Wedgetail AWACS have made it an essential asset for our partners, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the US Air Force to deliver these advanced sensors and systems to enhance its surveillance and tactical control capabilities.”
The FY27 budget amendment, which includes the procurement of additional E-7 Wedgetails, is part of the US Air Force’s ongoing modernisation effort aimed at maintaining its technological edge in an ever-evolving security landscape. The programme’s procurement will be conducted through a competitive bidding process, which is expected to be completed by Q3 FY27, with deliveries of the new aircraft scheduled to commence in Q4 FY28.
Industry analysts have hailed the decision to order additional Wedgetail AWACS as a strategic move to bolster the US Air Force’s defensive capabilities against an increasingly sophisticated threat environment. “With the Wedgetail programme, the US Air Force is acquiring a key tool to enhance its surveillance capabilities and improve its readiness posture,” noted an industry analyst at a leading defence research firm. “The programme’s potential integration with existing US command structures and its interoperability with allied forces make it an invaluable asset for regional security cooperation and global stability.”