The F-15EX is itself closely based on the F-15QA design but boasts several further improvements over its predecessor including the new AMBER weapons racks which allow the jets to carry up to 22 air to air missiles - more than any other fighter in the world.
Where the new Eagle can carry 22 air to air missiles, the F-35 is restricted to just four in standard configuration - meaning the F-15EX’s firepower for air to air combat is equivalent to that five and a half F-35s. The F-15EX may well be considered the best fighter in the world, or at least in the U.S. Air Force when considering factors such as sophistication, ease of maintenance, reliability, and flight performance altogether.
Given the F-15’s other advantages, however, from endurance to firepower and ease of use, the lack of stealth can be seen as a small price to pay for an otherwise superb fighter - particularly as advances in sensor technologies make the future survivability of airframes.
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