Operational F-15EXs Have Started Flying With Conformal Fuel Tanks

Two operational F-15EX Eagle II fighters of the Oregon Air National Guard’s 142nd Wing have begun flying with conformal fuel tanks from Portland, using equipment supplied by Air Combat Command. The configuration adds fuel and provides additional stores stations, allowing the aircraft to carry more air-to-ground weapons while preserving underwing space. F-15EX test aircraft had already flown with conformal tanks, but the Air Force initially planned to operate its combat-coded jets without them for air-to-air and homeland-defence missions, and the wing confirmed the configuration on two aircraft.