F-15K Fighters Gets $6 Billion Upgrade, Including Advanced Radar and Defense Systems

South Korea’s F-15K fighter jets, first introduced in 2005, are undergoing a major upgrade. A $6.2 billion modernization program includes advanced electronic radar and survivability systems.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has approved South Korea’s request for the modernization effort. This initiative aims to transform the F-15K fleet into 4.5-generation warplanes. Pictured is an F-15K squadron from the Republic of Korea Air Force’s 11th Fighter Wing.

Since its introduction, the F-15K has been the backbone of South Korea’s air force. The planned upgrades will integrate cutting-edge active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar systems and enhance the jets’ survivability in contested environments.

The DSCA announced on Tuesday that it had approved South Korea’s request for $6.2 billion in equipment and services to modernize its fleet of 70 F-15K fighter jets.

This modernization includes installing AESA radar systems and the Electronic Protection and Survivability System (EPAWSS), which will significantly enhance the aircraft’s air-to-air combat capabilities and electronic warfare resilience.

Currently, the F-15K relies on mechanical radar systems, which are typical of fourth-generation fighters. The addition of AESA radar is expected to increase information processing speeds by up to 1,000 times, allowing the simultaneous detection and tracking of multiple targets.

The EPAWSS, a state-of-the-art combat system already deployed on the U.S. Air Force’s latest F-15EX variant, will further bolster the F-15 K’s defenses.

This comprehensive upgrade will elevate the F-15K from its current 4th-generation multi-role fighter status to a formidable 4.5-generation platform, ensuring it remains a critical asset for South Korea’s air force for years.