“The F-15Cs that we have are wearing out.”
I think that is the right answer.
In order to preserve the Air Superiority mix of “high/low” with the F-22s, we need more “low” F-15s. The ones we have are worn out, and their avionics/weapons are aged as well.
I totally agree with your assessment. Most encounters have been and will be with gen 4 or less airplanes from 3rd world countries.
The F-15 fares very well against these adversaries. They only fall short in a hypothetical battle with another country that has gen 5 assets.
Even then, I believe that tactics and experience can still make the F-15 shine if the leadership uses the right tactics and listens to the eagle drivers.
The new F-15s will have new avionics and weaponsThe Next Generation F-15 Is Packed With Missiles