UK E-7 Wedgetail Program Progresses Amid US Cancellation and Operational Challenges

The United Kingdom’s E-7 Wedgetail airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) program is approaching a critical juncture, as the first aircraft nears completion amid broader scrutiny and strategic recalibration. The program, valued at approximately £1.89 billion ($1.39 billion), has faced delays and challenges since its inception, yet remains a cornerstone of the UK’s future air surveillance capability.

E-7 Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C). Boeing

The E-7 Wedgetail is designed to replace the retired E-3D Sentry fleet, which left a gap in the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) airborne early warning capabilities. Based on the Boeing 737 Next Generation airframe and equipped with Northrop Grumman’s Multi-Role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) radar, the platform is intended to provide 360-degree coverage and track multiple airborne and maritime threats simultaneously. The aircraft is being modified at STS Aviation Services in Birmingham, with the RAF’s 8 Squadron at Lossiemouth designated as the operating unit.

Despite the strategic importance of the E-7, the program has encountered significant delays. As of May 2025, only three test flights had been completed, and reports indicate that the sole completed airframe had not flown for eight months. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) attributes these delays to global supply chain disruptions, materials shortages, and workforce constraints, many of which stem from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, questions remain about the feasibility of achieving the projected in-service date of late 2025, especially given the complexity of the required flight and radar testing.

The cancellation of the United States Air Force’s (USAF) own Wedgetail program in mid-2025 adds another layer of complexity. The USAF decision, driven by cost and survivability concerns, has prompted speculation about the implications for the UK’s program. Boeing UK has declined to comment on the impact of the cancellation, while UK officials maintain that their program will proceed as planned. Analysts suggest that abandoning the UK procurement at this stage would result in substantial financial losses, given the sunk costs and limited alternatives.

Originally, the UK committed to purchasing five Wedgetail aircraft, but this was later reduced to three due to budgetary constraints. Nevertheless, the MoD has procured five MESA radars, allowing two to be used as spares. Defence experts have expressed concern that three aircraft may be insufficient to meet operational demands, particularly when factoring in maintenance cycles and mission coverage requirements. Some have argued that five aircraft would be the minimum necessary, with seven being ideal for full operational flexibility.

Oversight of the program has intensified. The Wedgetail initiative is part of the Government Major Project Portfolio (GMPP), which subjects it to regular reviews by the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority. Parliamentary scrutiny has also increased, with lawmakers questioning the program’s cost-effectiveness and delivery timeline. A 2023 report characterized the acquisition as offering poor value for money, though the Strategic Defence Review has recommended expanding the fleet if funding permits.

The first flight of the UK’s E-7 Wedgetail occurred on September 20, 2024, marking a milestone in the test and evaluation phase. However, subsequent flights have been limited, and the aircraft’s radar system has yet to undergo formal testing. The MoD has stated that a comprehensive ground and flight test program will begin soon, but the timeline remains uncertain. With fewer than 200 days remaining in 2025, experts question whether sufficient testing can be completed to meet the initial operational capability target.

The UK’s E-7 Wedgetail program is advancing toward operational readiness, but faces ongoing challenges related to testing, fleet size, and strategic alignment. The cancellation of the USAF’s program underscores the importance of reassessing long-term viability and interoperability goals. As the UK continues to invest in this capability, the coming months will be pivotal in determining whether the Wedgetail can fulfill its intended role within the RAF’s surveillance and command infrastructure.