First US Air Force E-7A Wedgetail Prototype Arrives in UK for Conversion

The first Boeing E-7A Wedgetail prototype for the US Air Force has arrived in Birmingham, UK for conversion from a 737-700 passenger jet. STS Aviation Services will modify the aircraft for airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) capabilities, including installing a Northrop Grumman radar. The US Air Force has exercised a $2.3 billion option related to the E-7A programme, bringing the total to $4.9 billion for two prototypes. The E-7A aims to replace the E-3 Sentry fleet as the USAF considers its future AEW&C strategy.

Published Mar 26, 2026

The first Boeing E-7A Wedgetail prototype for the US Air Force has arrived in Birmingham, UK for conversion from a 737-700 passenger jet. STS Aviation Services will perform modifications necessary for airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) capabilities, including the installation of a Northrop Grumman radar.

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The US Air Force exercised a $2.3 billion option, raising the total contract value to $4.9 billion for two prototypes. The E-7A is expected to replace the aging E-3 Sentry fleet. The programme's future direction will depend on forthcoming political decisions, with a need for an operational fleet of 26 E-7A jets outlined by the USAF.