April 28,2008:
South Korea is buying another 21
U.S. F-15E fighting-bombers, for about $110 million each. Designated the F-15K,
these aircraft are upgraded a bit from the standard F-15E. The 36 ton, two seat
aircraft can carry 11 tons of weapons, and deliver them in any weather, night
or day. These days, F-15Es only carry smart bombs and missiles. Eventually,
South Korea wants 120 F-15Ks. The first 40 were ordered six years ago, and one
was lost in an accident. That's why this order is for 21, and not 20. As long
as the aircraft continue to perform well, more orders will follow until 120 are
in service. The F-15Ks are replacing 30-40 year old F-4s. Equipped with smart
bombs, the F-15K is seen as a decisive weapon in any future war with North
Korea.