Boeing E-7A Wedgetail Aircraft

Full Specifications

E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning Aircraft

The Boeing E-7A Wedgetail is a modern airborne early warning and control platform designed to detect and track aircraft, ships, and missiles across large distances. Built on the commercial airframe of the Boeing 737-700, the aircraft serves as a flying command and control center for modern air operations.

The E-7A replaces older airborne surveillance platforms such as the Boeing E-3 Sentry. It uses advanced radar and battle management systems to coordinate fighters, direct intercept missions, and monitor the battlespace in real time.

With a distinctive dorsal radar array mounted on top of the fuselage, the aircraft provides long range situational awareness for air forces. It can simultaneously track hundreds of airborne and maritime targets while sharing data with allied aircraft, ground stations, and naval forces.

Manufacturer

The E-7A Wedgetail is produced by Boeing in cooperation with Northrop Grumman. Boeing developed the aircraft using the proven 737 platform, while Northrop Grumman provides the advanced multi role electronically scanned array radar system.

Originally developed for the Royal Australian Air Force, the aircraft is now operated or ordered by several allied nations. The United States has also selected the E-7A to replace aging E-3 aircraft in the future.

Speed and Range

The E-7A operates at high subsonic speeds typical of commercial jetliners. It has a maximum speed of about Mach 0.82 and a range of roughly 6,500 kilometers (4,000 miles) without refueling.

The aircraft can remain airborne for extended surveillance missions lasting more than 10 hours, especially when supported by aerial refueling. Its radar system can track airborne targets at ranges exceeding 600 kilometers, providing early warning for air defense networks.

Cost / Price

The estimated unit cost of the E-7A Wedgetail ranges between $350 million and $500 million, depending on configuration, mission systems, and support equipment. Large contracts include training, infrastructure, spare parts, and mission software integration.