View source for Boeing E-7 Wedgetail

{{short description|Airborne early warning and control aircraft}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2019}}
{{Use Australian English|date=March 2023}}
{{Infobox aircraft
| name = Boeing E-7 Wedgetail
| image = File:A30-001 in flight over the United States in April 2025 (cropped).jpg
| caption = A [[Royal Australian Air Force]] Boeing E-7A Wedgetail
| type = [[Airborne early warning and control]] (AEW&C)
| national_origin = Australia
| manufacturer = {{Ubl
  |[[Boeing Defense, Space & Security]] (modifications)
  |[[Boeing Commercial Airplanes]] (original 737 Next Generation design)
  }}
| designer = 
| first_flight = 2004
| introduction = November 2012<ref name=Wedgetail_Intro/>
| retired = 
| status = In service
| primary_user = [[Royal Australian Air Force]]<!--Limit one (1) primary user. Top 4 users listed in 'primary user' and 'more users' fields based on number of their fleets. -->
| more_users = {{Ubl | [[Turkish Air Force]] | [[Republic of Korea Air Force]] | [[Royal Air Force]] }}<!--Limit is three (3) TOTAL in 'more users' field (4 total users). Listed in by number in use, i.e. top users listed.  Please separate with <br />.-->
| produced = <!--years in production, e.g. 1970-1999, if still in active use but no longer built-->
| number_built = 15
| developed_from = [[Boeing 737 Next Generation]]
| variants = 
}}

The '''Boeing E-7 Wedgetail''', also marketed as the '''Boeing 737 AEW&C''', is a twin-engine [[airborne early warning and control]] aircraft originally designed for the [[Royal Australian Air Force]]. Based on the [[Boeing 737 Next Generation]] design, it has a fixed [[active electronically scanned array]] radar antenna instead of a rotating one as with the 707-based [[Boeing E-3 Sentry]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Roza |first1=David |title=The Air Force's new E-7A Wedgetail radar aircraft is ready for a fight |url=https://taskandpurpose.com/news/air-force-e-7a-wedgetail-boeing/ |website=Task & Purpose |date=2 March 2023 |access-date=13 March 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=A guide to the E-7 Wedgetail |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/a-guide-to-the-e-7-wedgetail/ |website=UK Defence Journal |date=22 March 2019 |access-date=13 March 2024}}</ref> The E-7 was designed for the [[Royal Australian Air Force]] (RAAF) under "Project Wedgetail" and designated '''E-7A Wedgetail'''.

The 737 AEW&C has also been selected by the [[Turkish Air Force]] (under "Project Peace Eagle", [[Turkish language|Turkish]]: ''Barış Kartalı'', designated ''E-7T''),<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.savunmasanayist.com/hik-tespit-etti-f-16lar-vurdu/ |title=HİK tespit etti F-16'lar vurdu |first=Anıl |last=Şahin |date=2 March 2020 |language=tr |trans-title=HIK detected F-16s shot down |website=SavunmaSanayiST}}</ref> the [[Republic of Korea Air Force]] ("Project Peace Eye", {{Korean|hangul=피스 아이|labels=no}}), and the United Kingdom (designated Wedgetail AEW1). The [[United States Air Force]] had previously announced that the E-7 would replace the E-3 starting from 2027, but in June 2025 the Defense Department announced that they planned to cancel the purchase in favour of [[Space-based radar|space-based solutions]], including the proposed [[Golden Dome (missile defense system)|Golden Dome]], and the [[E-2D Advanced Hawkeye]].<ref name=":1">{{cite web |title=Air Force identifies Boeing E-7 as solution to replace the E-3 capability |url=https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3011056/air-force-identifies-boeing-e-7-as-solution-to-replace-the-e-3-capability/ |access-date=2022-04-27 |website=Air Force |date=26 April 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Cohen |first=Rachel |date=2025-06-27 |title=Air Force to Cancel E-7 Wedgetail Buy |url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/air-force-cancel-e-7-wedgetail-buy/ |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=Air & Space Forces Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":2" /> In the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2026 passed by the US Congress in November 2025, additional funding was allocated to keep E-7 development on track.<ref name=":5" />

==Design and development==
[[File:B737 AEW&C Wedgetail cut model.PNG|thumb|Cutaway drawing]]

As early as 1986, the Australian [[Department of Defence (Australia)|Department of Defence]] evaluated industry proposals for airborne surveillance and early warning systems.<ref name=ANAO>{{cite web |url=https://www.anao.gov.au/sites/default/files/anao_report_2003-2004_32.pdf?acsf_files_redirect |title='Wedgetail' Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft: Project Management |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=March 2004 |website=www.anao.gov.au |publisher=Australian National Audit Office |access-date=2020-12-27}}</ref> In 1994, further studies led to the approval of the first phase of ''Project AIR 5077''.<ref name=ANAO/>  In 1996, Australia issued a [[request for proposal]] (RFP) for the aircraft for the RAAF under ''Project Wedgetail'', which refers to the [[wedge-tailed eagle|indigenous eagle]].<ref>[http://www.defence.gov.au/dmo/dceod/air5077/air5077.cfm "AIR 5077 – Project Wedgetail"] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120227193949/http://www.defence.gov.au/dmo/dceod/air5077/air5077.cfm |date=27 February 2012}}. Defence Materiel Organisation</ref> In 1999, Australia awarded Boeing Integrated Defense Systems a contract to supply four AEW&C aircraft with [[option (aircraft purchasing)|options]] for three additional aircraft.<ref name=ANAO/>

The 737 AEW&C is roughly similar to the 737-700ER. It uses the [[Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems]] [[Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array]] (MESA) [[radar]]. The electronically scanned AEW and surveillance radar is located on a dorsal fin on top of the fuselage, dubbed the "top hat", and is designed for minimal aerodynamic effect. The radar is capable of simultaneous air and sea search, fighter control and area search, with a maximum range of over 600&nbsp;km (look-up mode). The MESA radar is fixed, unlike the hydraulically-rotated AN/APY-1/2 of the [[Boeing E-3 Sentry|E-3 Sentry]], which the 737 AEW&C is set to replace.<ref>{{cite web |last=Newdick |first=Thomas |date=2023-03-01 |title=Air Force Orders First E-7 Jets To Replace Aging E-3 Sentry |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/air-force-orders-first-e-7-jets-to-replace-aging-e-3-sentry |access-date=2023-11-30 |website=The Drive |language=en}}</ref> Despite this, the radar is still able to offer 360-degree azimuth scan using two broadside (side-emitting) electronic manifold arrays, each covering two 120° sectors to starboard and port, and an end-fire array housed within the top hat that covers a 60° front and aft of the aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |title=Northrop Grumman Begins Structural Testing of MESA Radar Antenna for Wedgetail AEW&C Aircraft |url=https://news.northropgrumman.com/news/releases/northrop-grumman-begins-structural-testing-of-mesa-radar-antenna-for-wedgetail-aew-c-aircraft |access-date=2023-11-30 |website=Northrop Grumman Newsroom |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Kopp |first=Carlo |date=1999-06-01 |title=Wedgetail – Australia's "Pocket AWACS" |url=https://www.ausairpower.net/TE-Wedgetail-99.html |journal=Australian Aviation |volume=1999 |issue=June}}</ref>

The radar antenna array also serves as an [[ELINT]] array, with a maximum range of over 850&nbsp;km at {{Convert|9000|m|ft}} altitude.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Radar-and-Electronic-Warfare-Systems/Multirole-Electronically-Scanned-Array-MESA-radar-United-States.html |title=Multirole Electronically-Scanned Array (MESA) radar (United States), Airborne surveillance, maritime patrol and navigation radars |work=[[Jane's Information Group]] |access-date=7 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429073901/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Radar-and-Electronic-Warfare-Systems/Multirole-Electronically-Scanned-Array-MESA-radar-United-States.html |archive-date=29 April 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Radar signal processing equipment and a central computer are installed directly below the antenna array.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Electronic-Mission-Aircraft/Multirole-Electronically-Scanned-Array-MESA-radar-United-States.html |title=Multirole Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) radar (United States), Payloads |work=[[Jane's Information Group]] |access-date=7 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429094617/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Electronic-Mission-Aircraft/Multirole-Electronically-Scanned-Array-MESA-radar-United-States.html |archive-date=29 April 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

Other modifications include ventral fins to counterbalance the radar and [[countermeasures]] mounted on the nose, wingtips and tail. Inflight refueling is via a receptacle on top of the forward fuselage. The cabin has eight operator consoles with sufficient space for four more. The Australian fleet will operate ten consoles with space for two more, four on the starboard side and six on the port side.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-All-the-Worlds-Aircraft/Boeing-737-AEW-C-United-States.html |title=Boeing 737 AEW&C (United States), Aircraft – Fixed-wing – Military |work=[[Jane's Information Group]] |access-date=7 March 2016 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130216082341/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-All-the-Worlds-Aircraft/Boeing-737-AEW-C-United-States.html |archive-date=16 February 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Operational history==
===Australia===
[[File:Boeing 737-7ES Wedgetail, Australia - Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) JP7120522.jpg|thumb|A [[Royal Australian Air Force]] Wedgetail]]

Australia ordered four AEW&C aircraft with options for three additional aircraft, two of which have since been taken up. The first two Wedgetails were assembled, modified and tested in [[Seattle]], [[Washington (state)|Washington]], while the remainder were modified by [[Boeing Australia]], with deliveries once set to begin in 2006.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Wedgetail Aircraft Delivered to Boeing Australia for Airborne Early Warning and Control Modifications |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2006-01-16-Wedgetail-Aircraft-Delivered-to-Boeing-Australia-for-Airborne-Early-Warning-and-Control-Modifications |publisher=Boeing |date=2006-01-16}}</ref> Boeing and Northrop teamed with Boeing Australia, and [[BAE Systems Australia]]. Boeing Australia provides training, maintenance and support, BAE provides [[EWSP]] systems, [[Electronic Support Measures]] (ESM) systems and ground support systems.<ref>{{cite press release |title=BAE Systems Signs Wedgetail Agreement With Boeing |url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/release/5372/bae%2C-boeing-sign-%22wedgetail%22-aew-contract-%28may-21%29.html |publisher=BAE Systems |date=17 May 2001 |access-date=28 December 2020 |archive-date=26 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210626182622/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/release/5372/bae,-boeing-sign-%22wedgetail%22-aew-contract-(may-21).html |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In June 2006, the Australian Minister for Defence, [[Brendan Nelson]], stated that the Wedgetail was delayed despite Boeing's prior assurance that work was on schedule.<ref name="MoD_wedgetail_pr">[[Brendan Nelson|Nelson, Brendan]] [http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=5775 "Wedgetail Project"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060827142138/http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=5775 |date=27 August 2006}}. Australian Minister for Defence press release.</ref> Boeing announced an 18-month delay due to problems integrating radar and sensor systems, and did not expect delivery until early 2009. Boeing incurred $770&nbsp;million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=770000000|start_year=2006}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) in charges over the delay in 2006.<ref name="boe_charges">[http://www.isrjournal.com/story.php?F=2581313 "Radar down under Australia grapples with the Wedgetail AEW&C program"]. C4ISR Journal, 4 May 2007.</ref> In June 2008, Boeing announced a further delay due to integration issues with the radar and Electronic Support Measure (ESM) systems.<ref name="Minister_Tours_Facility">[http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Fitzgibbontpl.cfm?CurrentId=7872 "Minister Tours Wedgetail Facility at BAE Systems Australia"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090525154824/http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Fitzgibbontpl.cfm?CurrentId=7872 |date=25 May 2009}}. Australian DoD press release.</ref>

In November 2009, Boeing delivered the first two 737 AEW&Cs to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).<ref>[http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=960 "Boeing Delivers 2 Wedgetail AEW&C Aircraft to Royal Australian Air Force"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110626104255/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=960 |date=26 June 2011}}. Boeing, 26 November 2009.</ref> These aircraft remained Boeing owned and operated prior to the RAAF's formal acceptance in May 2010.<ref>[http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=1197 "Boeing Wedgetail Aircraft Accepted Into Royal Australian Air Force Fleet"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110826132659/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=1197 |date=26 August 2011}}. Boeing, 5 May 2010.</ref> The RAAF accepted its sixth and last 737 AEW&C in June 2012.<ref>Waldron, Greg. [http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-raaf-receives-final-wedgetail-aewc-aircraft-372622/ "RAAF receives final Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120610063639/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-raaf-receives-final-wedgetail-aewc-aircraft-372622/ |date=10 June 2012}}. ''Flight International'', 5 June 2012.</ref> All RAAF Wedgetails are operated by [[No. 2 Squadron RAAF]] and based at [[RAAF Base Williamtown]].<ref>{{cite web |title=E-7A Wedgetail |url=https://www.airforce.gov.au/aircraft/e-7a-wedgetail |access-date=2024-06-08 |website=[[Royal Australian Air Force]]}}</ref> In November 2012, the Wedgetail achieved Initial Operational Capability.<ref name=Wedgetail_Intro>[http://airforceworld.com/others/737_Boeing_Peaceeye_Wedgetail_AWACS_Korea_Australia_Turkey.htm "Wedgetail AEW&C Aircraft has achieved IPC"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130424131221/http://www.airforceworld.com/others/737_Boeing_Peaceeye_Wedgetail_AWACS_Korea_Australia_Turkey.htm |date=24 April 2013}}. airforceworld.com</ref>

[[File:RAAF E-7A Wedgetail being refueled by a KC-135 during Operation Inherent Resolve (2).jpg|thumb|left|A RAAF Wedgetail flying over the Middle East, 2017]]
On 1 April 2014, the Wedgetail's first operational sortie occurred in the search for [[Malaysia Airlines Flight 370]], helping control [[maritime patrol aircraft]] off Western Australia's coast.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.scotsman.com/news/world/navy-submarine-joins-search-jets-black-boxes-1540731 |last=Branagh |first=Ellen |date=April 2, 2014 |title=Navy submarine joins search for jet's black boxes |work=Scotsman |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210626182621/https://www.scotsman.com/news/world/navy-submarine-joins-search-jets-black-boxes-1540731 |archive-date= 26 June 2021 |url-status= live}}</ref> On 1 October 2014, a Wedgetail conducted the first Australian sortie over Iraq supporting coalition forces conducting airstrikes against [[Islamic State]] (ISIL).<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-02/royal-australian-air-force-planes-complete-first-missions-over-/5784352 |title=Islamic State: Royal Australian Air Force planes complete first flights over Iraq as part of international coalition against 'apocalyptic death cult' |date=2 October 2014 |work=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141002125722/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-10-02/royal-australian-air-force-planes-complete-first-missions-over-/5784352 |archive-date= 2 October 2014 |url-status= live}}</ref> In May 2015, the Wedgetail fleet achieved final operational capability (FOC).<ref name = "foc 2015">[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/raafs-e-7a-wedgetails-achieve-foc-412730/ "RAAF's E-7A Wedgetails achieve FOC"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150526213059/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/raafs-e-7a-wedgetails-achieve-foc-412730/ |date=26 May 2015}} – Flightglobal.com, 26 May 2015</ref>

In November 2015, the Wedgetail performed the longest Australian command and control mission in a war zone during a 17-hour, 6-minute combat mission, requiring two air-to-air refuelings to stay aloft.<ref>[http://australianaviation.com.au/2015/11/wedgetail-sets-mission-duration-record/ "Wedgetail sets mission duration record"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423232324/http://australianaviation.com.au/2015/11/wedgetail-sets-mission-duration-record/ |date=23 April 2018}} – Aviation Australia, 12 November 2015</ref> Australian Wedgetail crews routinely perform 13-hour missions.<ref>[http://www.airforce.gov.au/News/Wedgetail-Endurance-Mission/?RAAF-rfHiMv85HKMNiMHU1ugcodFNsjLFCV3D "Wedgetail Endurance Mission"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208192023/http://www.airforce.gov.au/News/Wedgetail-Endurance-Mission/?RAAF-rfHiMv85HKMNiMHU1ugcodFNsjLFCV3D |date=8 February 2015}} – Airforce.gov.au, 13 January 2015</ref> In early April 2016, Rotation 5 of aircrew and maintenance personnel that had been operating the RAAF Wedgetail in the Middle East, achieved a record 100 percent mission success rate in [[International military intervention against ISIL|Coalition operations against ISIS]]. The E-7A successfully conducted all 36 missions, each lasting upwards of 12 hours, amounting to nearly 500 hours of flying for the one aircraft.<ref>[http://news.defence.gov.au/stories/2016/04/air-task-group-wedgetail-achieves-100-mission-success-rate-in-the-middle-east/ "Air Task Group Wedgetail Achieves 100% Mission Success Rate in the Middle East"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160424105337/http://news.defence.gov.au/stories/2016/04/air-task-group-wedgetail-achieves-100-mission-success-rate-in-the-middle-east/ |date=24 April 2016}}. Defence.gov.au, 8 April 2016</ref> The final Wedgetail rotation to the Middle East ended in early 2019.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hartigan |first1=Brian |title=Wedgetail finished with the Middle East |url=https://www.contactairlandandsea.com/2019/02/19/wedgetail-finished-with-the-middle-east/ |access-date=10 January 2024 |work=CONTACT magazine |date=19 February 2019}}</ref>

In October 2023, an Australian Wedgetail was deployed to Europe to contribute to international efforts to protect the flow of supplies to Ukraine following the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine|Russian invasion]] of the country. The deployment was scheduled to last for six months.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Felton |first1=Ben |title=RAAF Wedgetail arrives in Europe |url=https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/raaf-wedgetail-arrives-in-europe |access-date=22 October 2023 |work=Australian Defence Magazine |date=20 October 2023 |language=en}}</ref> The Wedgetail returned to Australia in early April 2024.<ref>{{cite web |title=Wedgetail returns from support operations in Europe |url=https://www.defence.gov.au/news-events/releases/2024-04-02/wedgetail-returns-support-operations-europe |website= defence.gov.au |publisher=Australian ministry of Defence |access-date=26 June 2024 |ref=31}}</ref> A second RAAF Wedgetail deployment to Europe began in August 2025.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Greene |first1=Andrew |title=RAAF helps defend European airspace during Russian strikes |url=https://thenightly.com.au/politics/royal-australian-air-force-helps-defend-european-airspace-during-russian-drone-strikes-c-20169325 |access-date=29 September 2025 |work=The Nightly |date=28 September 2025 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Australia deepens collaboration with NATO and takes further action to hold Russia to account |url=https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/media-releases/2025-06-26/australia-deepens-collaboration-nato-takes-further-action-hold-russia-account-0 |website=Media release |access-date=29 September 2025 |language=en |date=26 June 2025}}</ref>

The Australian Government's ''2024 Integrated Investment Program'' included a commitment to allocate $A5 billion to $A7 billion to replace the Wedgetail fleet between the 2024–25 and 2033–34 financial years.<ref>{{cite book |title=2024 Integrated Investment Program |date=2024 |publisher=Department of Defence |location=Canberra |isbn=978-1-925890-89-1 |page=71 |url=https://www.defence.gov.au/about/strategic-planning/2024-national-defence-strategy-2024-integrated-investment-program}}</ref>

===Turkey===
[[File:Turkish Air Force Boeing 737-700 KvW.jpg|thumb|left|A Boeing 737 AEW&C of the [[Turkish Air Force]]]]

Four Boeing 737 AEW&C Peace Eagle aircraft along with ground support systems were ordered by the Turkish Air Force, with an option for two more. [[Turkish Aerospace Industries]] (TAI) is the Peace Eagle's primary subcontractor, performing parts production, testing, aircraft assembly and conversion. Another Turkish subcontractor, [[HAVELSAN]], is responsible for ground support elements, system analysis and software support.<ref>[http://www.havelsan.com.tr/SisCoz/ENProjeler.aspx Peace Eagle (PE) – Turkish Airborne Early Warning & Control System] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100924232435/http://www.havelsan.com.tr/SisCoz/ENProjeler.aspx |date=24 September 2010}}, Havelsan.</ref> HAVELSAN is the only foreign company licensed by the U.S. government to receive critical source codes.<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/news/frontiers/archive/2007/august/i_ids03.pdf "Team World"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227094215/http://www.boeing.com/news/frontiers/archive/2007/august/i_ids03.pdf |date=27 February 2009}}. Boeing Frontier's magazine, August 2007.</ref> Peace Eagle 1 was modified and tested by Boeing in the US. Peace Eagle 2, 3 and 4 were modified and tested at TAI's facilities in Ankara, Turkey, in partnership with Boeing and several Turkish companies. In 2006, the four Peace Eagles were scheduled to be delivered in 2008.<ref name="MESA_install">[http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/ic/aewc/news/2006/q1/060302b_pr.html "Boeing Installs MESA Antenna on First Peace Eagle Aircraft"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080905044121/http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/ic/aewc/news/2006/q1/060302b_pr.html |date=5 September 2008}}. Boeing, 2 March 2006.</ref>

In September 2007, Boeing completed the first Peace Eagle test flight.<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/ic/aewc/news/2007/q3/070906b_nr.html "Boeing Successfully Completes First Test Flight of AEW&C Peace Eagle Aircraft"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080124221209/http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/ic/aewc/news/2007/q3/070906b_nr.html |date=24 January 2008}}, Boeing, 6 September 2007.</ref> In June 2008, it was announced that Peace Eagle 2, the second 737 AEW&C, had completed modifications. Flight and mission system checks were completed in the third quarter of 2008.<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2008/q2/080604a_nr.html "Boeing Supplier Turkish Aerospace Industries Completes 1st In-Country Modification of Peace Eagle AEW&C Aircraft"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080612050349/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2008/q2/080604a_nr.html |date=12 June 2008}}. Boeing, 4 June 2008.</ref> In 2013, Israel delivered EW equipment for the Peace Eagle under US pressure.<ref>[http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Israel_sends_Turks_EW_systems_despite_rift_999.html "Israel sends Turks EW systems despite rift."] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130312051734/http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Israel_sends_Turks_EW_systems_despite_rift_999.html |date=12 March 2013}} spacedaily.com</ref> On 21 February 2014, the first Peace Eagle, named ''Kuzey'' (meaning North), was formally accepted by the Turkish Air Force.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140208/DEFREG01/302080021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140208191445/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140208/DEFREG01/302080021 |url-status=dead |archive-date=8 February 2014 |title=Boeing Delivers 1st Spy Plane To Turkey; Faces Penalties |last1=BEKDIL |first1=BURAK EGE |date=8 February 2014 |website=www.defensenews.com |publisher=Gannett Government Media}}</ref><ref>[http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/gundem/25862115.asp "TSK yeni yıldızı Barış Kartalı'na kavuştu"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222114537/http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/gundem/25862115.asp |date=22 February 2015}}. Hürriyet, 21 February 2014.</ref><ref name=PeaceEagleCeremony>[http://www.hvkk.tsk.tr/EN/IcerikDetay.aspx?ID=93&IcerikID=5697 "First Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft of the Peace Eagle Project, ''Kuzey'' (North) was taken into inventory"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140311021904/http://www.hvkk.tsk.tr/EN/IcerikDetay.aspx?ID=93&IcerikID=5697 |date=11 March 2014}}. Turkish Air Force</ref> The remaining three aircraft are named ''Güney'' (South), ''Doğu'' (East) and ''Batı'' (West).<ref name=PeaceEagleCeremony/> The fourth and final Peace Eagle was delivered in December 2015.<ref>[https://www.defensenews.com/air/2015/12/09/boeing-delivers-last-aew-c-aircraft-to-turkey/ "Boeing Delivers Last AEW&C Aircraft to Turkey"]. Defense News, 9 December 2015.</ref>

In IDEF 2023 was a signed project contract, for the modernization of the E-7 Peace Eagle aircraft in the inventory of Turkish Air Force to meet the current operational needs of Air Force and to eliminate the obsolescence in the software. Within the scope of modernization, the aircraft will be equipped with IFF Mode 5 Responder, Karetta [[Controlled reception pattern antenna|CRPA]] Antenna, Mission Computer Hardware developed by [[Aselsan]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Işık |first=Yusuf Emir |date=2023-08-05 |title=HİK uçakları milli sistemlerle uçacak |url=https://www.defenceturk.net/hik-ucaklari-milli-sistemlerle-ucacak |access-date=2023-12-14 |website=DefenceTurk |language=tr}}</ref>

===South Korea===
[[File:공중조기경보통제기 (7445565660).jpg|thumb|left|A [[Republic of Korea Air Force]] Boeing 737 AEW&C]]
In November 2006, Boeing won a $1.6&nbsp;billion contract with South Korea to deliver four aircraft by 2012.<ref name="Reuters">"[https://www.reuters.com/article/us-arms-korea-boeing-idUSSEO35315920061108 South Korea picks Boeing for surveillance planes] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924090354/http://www.reuters.com/article/2006/11/08/us-arms-korea-boeing-idUSSEO35315920061108 |date=24 September 2015}}." [[Reuters]]. 8 November 2006.</ref> Boeing beat the other entrant, [[Elta Systems|IAI Elta]]'s [[Gulfstream G550]]-based aircraft, which was eliminated from the competition in August 2006.<ref name="reuters_rok_20060803">"[http://today.reuters.com/stocks/QuoteCompanyNewsArticle.aspx?view=CN&storyID=2006-08-03T084326Z_01_SEO302934_RTRIDST_0_KOREA-BOEING-ISRAEL.XML&rpc=66 S. Korea drops IAI, keeps Boeing in $2 bln plane deal]." Reuters. 3 August 2006. {{dead link |date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> The first ''Peace Eye'' aircraft was delivered to [[Gimhae Air Base]], [[Busan]] for acceptance testing in August 2011<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2011/08/205_92015.html |title=Korea gets 1st early warning aircraft |work=[[The Korea Times]] |date=1 August 2011 |access-date=2 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811230036/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2011/08/205_92015.html |archive-date=11 August 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> with the remaining three aircraft delivered every six months until 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2011/03/116_82353.html |title=S. Korea to have 1st early warning aircraft |work=[[The Korea Times]] |date=2 March 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110304023928/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2011/03/116_82353.html |archive-date=4 March 2011}}</ref> The second aircraft was modified into an AEW&C configuration by [[Korea Aerospace Industries]] (KAI), then delivered to Gimhae Air Base in December 2011.<ref>[http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=2071/ "Boeing Delivers 2nd Peace Eye AEW&C Aircraft to Republic of Korea Air Force, Boeing Defense"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118202713/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=2071 |date=18 January 2012}} . Boeing, 13 December 2011.</ref> After receiving AEW&C modifications by KAI, the third aircraft was delivered in May 2012 to Gimhae Air Base.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.naver.com/main/read.nhn?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=102&oid=112&aid=0002299371 |title=공군, 16일부로 피스아이 3대 보유 |work=[[Naver]] |access-date=7 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108002124/http://news.naver.com/main/read.nhn?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=102&oid=112&aid=0002299371 |archive-date=8 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> The fourth aircraft was delivered in October 2012.<ref name=Key_4th_Peace_Eye>Gary Parsons, Gary. [http://www.key.aero/view_news.asp?ID=5447&thisSection=military "Boeing Delivers Final Peace Eye to Korea"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106104551/http://www.key.aero/view_news.asp?ID=5447&thisSection=military |date=6 November 2012}}. Key Publishing via key.aero, 31 October 2012.</ref>

In October 2019, the South Korean newspaper Munwha reported that the four E-7 aircraft had suffered from frequent breakdowns from 2013 to 2019, incurring costs of 350 billion Korean won, comparable to the 400 billion Korean won each aircraft cost to procure. The fleet availability between 2015 and 2019 was 63-73%, below the 75% target operating rate.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Newdick |first=Thomas |date=2025-09-30 |title=South Korea Has Chosen Its Next Airborne Early Warning Radar Jet |url=https://www.twz.com/air/south-korea-has-chosen-its-next-airborne-early-warning-radar-jet |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=정충신 |date=2019-10-07 |title=“조기경보기 7년간 부품 수리비 3500억원… 5년간 목표가동률도 미달 안보 감시 구멍” |url=https://www.munhwa.com/article/11154250 |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=문화일보 |language=ko}}</ref>

In 2023, South Korea initiated a competitive program to acquire four additional AEW&C aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/south-korea-to-acquire-new-aewc-aircraft-to-track-north-korean-missiles |title=South Korea to acquire new AEW&C aircraft to track North Korean missiles |first1=Akhil |last1=Kadidal |work=[[Janes Information Services|Janes]] |date=7 June 2023 |accessdate=11 April 2024}}</ref> The Boeing E-7, [[GlobalEye|Saab Global Eye]], and a [[L3Harris]] [[Gulfstream Aerospace|Gulfstream-based]] variant competed for the contract,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/02/22/foreign-firms-vie-for-south-koreas-airborne-early-warning-contract/ |title=Foreign firms vie for South Korea's airborne early warning contract |date=22 February 2024 |first1=Gordon |last1=Arthur |newspaper=[[Defense News]] |accessdate=11 April 2024}}</ref> with the L3Harris/[[ELTA Systems|ELTA]] bid winning in 2025.<ref name=":4" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Satam |first=Parth |date=2025-09-30 |title=South Korea Choses L3Harris for ROKAF's Next Airborne Radar |url=https://theaviationist.com/2025/09/30/l3harris-rokaf-next-airborne-radar/ |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=The Aviationist |language=en-US}}</ref>

===United Kingdom===
[[File:RAF Wedgetail in flight.jpg|thumb|A Wedgetail of the Royal Air Force]]
In October 2018, the British Government ([[Second May ministry|May ministry]]) announced that it was in talks with Boeing about the potential for the E-7 Wedgetail to replace its E-3D fleet. Talks about using the aircraft were also taking place with Australia.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Chuter |first1=Andrew |date=2 October 2018 |title=Britain confirms talks with Boeing over potential $2.6B Wedgetail aircraft buy |url=https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2018/10/02/britain-confirms-talks-with-boeing-over-potential-26b-wedgetail-aircraft-buy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20181006134920/https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2018/10/02/britain-confirms-talks-with-boeing-over-potential-26b-wedgetail-aircraft-buy/ |archive-date=6 October 2018 |access-date=6 October 2018 |website=Defense News}}</ref> 
The apparent decision to proceed with procurement without a competition received some criticism, with the [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]] accused of displaying [[favouritism]] towards Boeing,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Chuter |first1=Andrew |date=17 October 2018 |title=Lawmaker accuses British defense minister of Boeing favoritism |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2018/10/17/lawmaker-accuses-british-defense-minister-of-boeing-favoritism/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20181029084636/https://www.defensenews.com/air/2018/10/17/lawmaker-accuses-british-defense-minister-of-boeing-favoritism/ |archive-date=29 October 2018 |access-date=29 October 2018 |website=Defense News}}</ref> while [[Saab AB|Saab]] voiced its opposition to the "non-competitive" deal as it could offer the [[Erieye]] system mounted on [[Airbus A330 MRTT]] aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Hoyle |first1=Craig |date=24 October 2018 |title=Saab voices opposition to UK Wedgetail buy |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/saab-voices-opposition-to-uk-wedgetail-buy-452945/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029084635/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/saab-voices-opposition-to-uk-wedgetail-buy-452945/ |archive-date=29 October 2018 |access-date=29 October 2018 |website=Flight Global}}</ref> 
In March 2019, the UK signed a $1.98&nbsp;billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=1980000000|start_year=2019}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) deal to purchase five E-7 Wedgetails.<ref name="RAF">{{cite web |url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/wedgetail-to-be-rafs-new-early-warning-radar-aircraft/ |title=Wedgetain to be RAF's new early warning radar aircraft |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=22 March 2019 |access-date=22 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322111155/https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/wedgetail-to-be-rafs-new-early-warning-radar-aircraft/ |archive-date=22 March 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref> 
The aircraft will be [[British military aircraft designation systems|designated]] the "Wedgetail AEW1".<ref name="Key 1 June 2020">{{cite web |url=https://www.key.aero/article/boeing-grows-raf-wedgetail-industry-team |title=Boeing Grows RAF Wedgetail Industry Team |date=1 June 2020 |work=Key.aero |publisher=Key Publishing |access-date=13 August 2020}}</ref>

Airframe modification was expected to be performed by Marshall Aerospace, but it withdrew in May 2020, thus Boeing selected STS Aviation Group's UK branch on 20 May 2020.<ref>{{cite news |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |date=20 May 2020 |title=Boeing picks STS for UK Wedgetail conversions |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/boeing-picks-sts-for-uk-wedgetail-conversions/138461.article |work=Flight Global}}</ref> 
Two of the five aircraft are{{when|date=December 2025}} to be converted commercial airliners and the rest are to be new.<ref name="Second-hand"/> Each conversion takes about 24 months, with work on the first aircraft starting in 2021 and the last to be completed in 2026.<ref name="Second-hand">{{cite news |last1=Perry |first1=Dominic |title=RAF to get second-hand jets as part of Wedgetail buy |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/raf-to-get-second-hand-jets-as-part-of-wedgetail-buy/132662.article |work=Flight Global |date=13 May 2019 |language=en}}</ref> 
{{outdated|since=2024|date=December 2025}}
In June 2020, the first Wedgetail delivery was expected in 2023.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |last=Quin |first=Jeremy |date=8 June 2020 |title=AWACS: Procurement:Written question – 51653 |url=https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2020-06-01/51653 |website=UK Parliament |language=en}}</ref>

In December 2020, [[AirForces Monthly|''Air Forces Monthly'']] reported that the UK was considering reducing its Wedgetail purchase from five to three aircraft and stated that such a move "could often mean just one aircraft would be available for operational tasking."<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Lake |first=Jon |date=December 2020 |title=UK Wedgetail at risk? |magazine=AirForces Monthly |page=75 |location=Stamford, Lincs |publisher=Key Publishing Ltd}}</ref> The [[Integrated Review|2021 Integrated Defence Review]] confirmed the reduced order of three aircraft.<ref name=MOD_IR>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/integrated-review-ministry-of-defence |title=Ministry of Defence Integrated Review Command Paper |website=GOV.UK |date=30 July 2021}}</ref> In late 2022, it was reported that initial operating capability for the aircraft had slipped to 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviationsourcenews.com/military/raf-lossiemouth-base-preparing-for-arrival-of-uk-e-7-wedgetail-fleet/ |title=RAF Lossiemouth Base preparing for arrival of UK E-7 Wedgetail fleet |first=Piotr |last=Bozyk |date=10 October 2022 |access-date=11 October 2022 |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011120350/https://aviationsourcenews.com/military/raf-lossiemouth-base-preparing-for-arrival-of-uk-e-7-wedgetail-fleet/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> Then in 2024 it was indicated that service entry was now anticipated in 2025.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/e-7-wedgetail-to-enter-service-next-year/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20Wedgetail%20Full%20Business%20Case,the%20RAF%20in%20autumn%202025.%E2%80%9D |title=E-7 Wedgetail to enter service next year |website= U.K. Defence Journal |first=George|last=Allison|date=16 March 2024}}</ref> The in-service date then slipped further into 2026.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/uk-pushes-delayed-wedgetail-service-entry-target-into-2026/162883.article |title=UK pushes delayed Wedgetail service entry target into 2026 |website=Flight Global |first=Craig|last=Hoyle|date=6 May 2025}}</ref> 
<br/>In February 2023, [[Air Chief Marshal]] [[Michael Wigston]] stated that the order of three aircraft may gradually rise back to five airframes.<ref name="5wedgetails">{{cite news |title=British air chief eyes return to five-strong Wedgetail buy |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/02/01/british-air-chief-eyes-return-to-five-strong-wedgetail-buy/ |access-date=2 February 2023 |work=Defense News |date=1 February 2023}}</ref> 
The [[Strategic Defence Review (2025)|2025 defence review]] recommended the procurement of additional aircraft, though this might proceed in conjunction with other NATO allies.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://theaviationist.com/2025/06/03/uk-strategic-defence-review-2025/ |title=UK Strategic Defence Review: Key Points from an Initial Reading |website= The Aviationist |first=Kai|last=Greet|date=3 June 2025}}</ref>

===United States===
In February 2021 General [[Kenneth S. Wilsbach]], the Commander of the [[United States Pacific Air Forces]], proposed that the USAF rapidly acquire E-7s to replace the E-3s deployed to the Indo-Pacific region.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Everstine |first1=Brian W. |title=PACAF Boss Calls for E-7s to Replace Aging E-3 AWACS |url=https://www.airforcemag.com/pacaf-boss-calls-for-e-7s-to-replace-aging-e-3-awacs/ |access-date=25 February 2021 |work=[[Air Force Magazine]] |date=24 February 2021}}</ref> In March 2022, Wilsbach stated that the E-3 had insufficient detection range against aircraft like the Chinese [[Chengdu J-20]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/e-3-insufficient-for-timely-detection-of-j-20-pacific-air-forces-chief/147939.article |title=E-3 insufficient for timely detection of J-20: Pacific Air Forces chief |website=Flight Global |date=17 March 2022 |first=Greg |last=Waldron |access-date=8 June 2022 |archive-date=18 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220318141830/https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/e-3-insufficient-for-timely-detection-of-j-20-pacific-air-forces-chief/147939.article |url-status=live }}</ref> In April 2021, [[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] reported that Gen. [[Jeffrey L. Harrigian|Jeffrey Harrigian]], commander of [[United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa|U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa]], also voiced support for a near-term E-7 acquisition.<ref name="awst-profile-april-2021">{{Cite magazine |url=https://aviationweek.com/awin-knowledge-center/program-dossier-boeing-e-7a-wedgetail |title=Program Dossier: Boeing E-7A Wedgetail |last=Richmond |first=Sterling |date=14 April 2021 |magazine=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] |url-access=subscription |language=en}}</ref> 
In October 2021, the USAF published a "Notice of Contract Action", stating its intent to award Boeing a sole-source contract to study the E-7 to determine if it can meet USAF configuration standards and mandates.<ref>{{cite web |title=E-3 Replacement Aircraft Studies & Analyses |url=https://sam.gov/opp/bd61606d0ee74c71bb2e898523885a62/view#general |access-date=2021-11-02 |website=sam.gov}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Insinna |first=Valerie |date=2021-10-21 |title=The US Air Force Just Inched Closer To Buying Boeing's E-7A Wedgetail |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2021/10/the-us-air-force-just-inched-closer-to-buying-boeings-e-7a-wedgetail/ |website=Breaking Defense}}</ref>

[[File:USAF E-7A (cropped).jpg|thumb|A [[USAF]] E-7A in flight, artist's depiction]]
In April 2022, the U.S. Air Force announced that the E-7 would replace the E-3, as it "is the only platform capable of meeting the requirements for the Defense Department's tactical battle management, command and control and moving target indication capabilities within the timeframe needed..."<ref name=":1" /><ref name="breakingdefense.insinna.2022.04.26">{{cite web |last1=Insinna |first1=Valerie |date=2022-04-26 |title=Air Force chooses Boeing E-7 Wedgetail to replace old AWACS planes |url=https://breakingdefense.sites.breakingmedia.com/2022/04/air-force-chooses-boeing-e-7-wedgetail-to-replace-old-awacs-planes/ |access-date=2022-04-27 |website=Breaking Defense |language=en-US}}</ref> In 2023, an initial $1.2&nbsp;billion contract was awarded to develop two new US-specific variants of the E-7. A final production decision for a total fleet of 26 aircraft was planned for 2025, with the first USAF E-7 intended to enter service in 2027.<ref name="boeing.pr.e-7a.2023.02.28">{{Cite press release |title=Boeing Receives U.S. Air Force E-7 Airborne Early Warning & Control Aircraft Contract |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/news-releases-statements?item=131217 |date=28 February 2023 |access-date=2023-03-01 |publisher=Boeing |via=boeing.mediaroom.com}}</ref><ref name="awst.e-7a.2023.02.28">{{Cite magazine |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/us-air-force-awards-first-e-7a-contract-boeing |title=U.S. Air Force Awards First E-7A Contract To Boeing |magazine=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] |date=28 February 2023 |access-date=2 March 2023 |url-access=subscription |quote=The service is using the rapid prototyping acquisition pathway to acquire the first two E-7As ahead of a planned production decision in fiscal 2025. The Air Force wants the first E-7A fielded in 2027. [...] The service in a Feb. 28 statement says it plans to field 26 aircraft, an increase from the 22 outlined in a June 2022 sole-source justification document.}}</ref><ref name="defensenews.losey.2023.03.01">{{cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2023/03/01/us-air-force-awards-boeing-first-contract-for-fleet-of-26-e-7-aircraft/ |title=US Air Force awards Boeing first contract for fleet of 26 E-7 aircraft |last1=Losey |first1=Stephen |date=1 March 2023 |website=Defense News |access-date=3 March 2023}}</ref>

In June 2025, it was reported that [[Second presidency of Donald Trump|the Trump Administration]] was considering cancelling the E-7 procurement due to concerns that the aircraft would be vulnerable in future conflicts. During an appearance before Congress, [[United States Secretary of Defense|Secretary of Defense]] [[Pete Hegseth]] gave the E-7 as an example of "systems and platforms that are not survivable in the modern battlefield, or they don't give us an advantage in a future fight" and said that "tough decisions" needed to be made.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Finnerty |first1=Ryan |title=US defence secretary casts further doubt on E-7 acquisition plan |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/us-defence-secretary-casts-further-doubt-on-e-7-acquisition-plan/163315.article |access-date=13 June 2025 |work=Flight Global |date=12 June 2025 |language=en}}</ref>

On 26 June 2025, it was reported that the U.S. Air Force had canceled the E-7 program due to ballooning costs and concerns about survivability. The termination, announced as part of the fiscal 2026 budget rollout, came after months of rumors that the program was in danger as the Trump administration increasingly set its sights on instead using space-based capabilities to help warplanes find and track enemy aircraft, known as the [[Moving target indication|air moving target indicator]] (AMTI) mission.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Insinna |first=Valerie |date=2025-06-26 |title=Air Force cancels E-7 Wedgetail, citing survivability and cost concerns |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2025/06/air-force-cancels-e-7-wedgetail-citing-survivability-and-cost-concerns/ |access-date=2025-06-27 |website=Breaking Defense |language=en-US}}</ref> 
<br/>However, in September 2025 it was announced that two existing Boeing 737 passenger aircraft would be significantly overhauled and upgraded to create two prototype early-warning surveillance aircraft for delivery to the USAF.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/jobs-boost-as-uk-set-to-build-military-aircraft-for-united-states-for-first-time-in-over-fifty-years|title=Jobs boost as UK set to build military aircraft for United States for first time in over fifty years|website=GOV.UK|accessdate=18 September 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=USAF E-7 Rapid Prototypes To Be Assembled In UK |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense/aircraft-propulsion/usaf-e-7-rapid-prototypes-be-assembled-uk |website=Aviation Week & Space Technology |access-date=22 September 2025 |date=18 September 2025}}</ref>

===Potential customers===
====Saudi Arabia====
As of December 2023, Saudi Arabia is in the middle of a two-phase mid-life upgrade to its existing fleet of E-3 Sentry aircraft.<ref name="AW&ST 2024 forecast">{{Cite magazine |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/budget-policy-operations/major-military-aviation-competitions-be-resolved-2024 |title=Major Military Aviation Competitions To Be Resolved In 2024 |magazine=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] |first1=Matthew |last1=Jouppi |first2=Sterling |last2=Richmond |date=13 December 2023}}</ref> In August 2022, the U.S. Air Force revealed that Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in the E-7.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2022/08/11/us-air-force-moves-to-shield-wedgetail-acquisition-from-continuing-resolution/ |title=US Air Force moves to shield Wedgetail acquisition from continuing resolution |first1=Courtney |last1=Albon |work=[[Defense News]] |date=11 August 2022 |quote=... Saudi Arabia has shown interest in the platform ...}}</ref>

====Canada====
In April 2024, Canada announced it would be investing CA$5 billion on AEW&C capabilities. The [[GlobalEye]] may be a competitor to the E-7.<ref>{{cite web |last=Osborne |first=Tony |date=22 April 2014 |title=Canada Plans To Spend C$5 Billion On AEW Aircraft |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/budget-policy-operations/canada-plans-spend-c5-billion-aew-aircraft |url-access=subscription |access-date=25 April 2024 |website=Aviation Week}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=PK |date=2024-04-23 |title=Le Canada désire un avion d'alerte précoce AEW&C ! |url=https://www.avianews.ch/post/le-canada-d%C3%A9sire-un-avion-d-alerte-pr%C3%A9coce-aew-c |access-date=2024-04-25 |website=Avia news |language=fr}}</ref>

===Failed bids===
====Italy====
In 2004, the [[Italian Air Force]] was considering the purchase of a total of 14 Wedgetail and [[Boeing P-8 Poseidon|P-8 MMA]] aircraft, with aircraft support to be provided by [[Alitalia]].<ref name="avweek_20040621">{{cite web |url=https://aviationweek.com/us-mma-decision-reverberates-italy |title=U.S. MMA Decision Reverberates in Italy |website=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] |date=21 June 2004 |first1=Andy |last1=Nativi |location=Genoa}}</ref> In 2008, owing to budget constraints, Italy chose not to proceed with either aircraft and chose a smaller, less expensive, interim solution in place of the P-8, the [[ATR 72#ATR 72MP|ATR 72MP]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Alegi |first1=G. |url=http://www.dedalonews.it/it/index.php/12/2008/quattro-atr-72-da-pattugliamento-marittimo-per-laeronautica-militare |website=Dedalonews |title=Quattro ATR 72 da pattugliamento marittimo |language=it |trans-title=Four ATR 72 maritime patrol cars for the Italian Air Force |date=22 September 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090515161339/http://www.dedalonews.it/it/index.php/12/2008/quattro-atr-72-da-pattugliamento-marittimo-per-laeronautica-militare |archive-date=15 May 2009}}</ref> In 2012, Italy acquired two [[Gulfstream G550 CAEW]] as part of a counter-deal to Israel's $1&nbsp;billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=1000000000|start_year=2012}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) order for 30 Alenia Aermacchi [[M-346]] advanced jet trainers,<ref name="FG120720">{{cite news |last=Egozi |first=Arie |date=20 July 2012 |title=Italy signs G550 AEW deal with Israel |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/italy-signs-g550-aew-deal-with-israel-374579/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240922222754/https://www.flightglobal.com/italy-signs-g550-aew-deal-with-israel/106341.article |archive-date=22 September 2024 |work=Flight Global}}</ref> followed by an additional order of two more aircraft in 2022.<ref>{{cite news |title=Secret NATO Client of Israeli Spy Planes Revealed |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2022-08-28/ty-article/.premium/secret-nato-client-of-israeli-spy-planes-revealed/00000182-ce84-dfe2-aba3-efeee72f0000 |access-date=10 September 2022 |work=[[Haaretz]] |date=28 April 2022}}</ref>

====NATO====
In 2022, [[NATO]] issued a "Request for Information" (RFI) for a capability to replace its 14 [[Boeing E-3 Sentry|E-3A]] AWACS aircraft by 2035, with an "initial operational capability" by 2031.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/eProcurement5G/Opportunities/Opportunities/DownloadAttachments?fileIdentifier=0%7CMjU0MjE%3D%7CRU4%3D%7CUkZJX0luaXRpYWwgQUZTQyBGYXN0IFRyYWNrX1N5bm9wc2lzLmRvY3g%3D |title=Notice of Request for Information Synopsis for an Initial Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) Capability |date=12 December 2022 |publisher=NATO |via=NATO Procurement and Support Agency (NPSA) |id=22LFM001}}</ref> Boeing stated that it had responded to the request, offering an E-7-based solution.<ref name="breakingdefense.martin.2023.02.24">{{cite web |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2023/02/nato-begins-assessment-of-e-3a-replacement-wedgetail-globaleye-in-the-running/ |title=NATO begins assessment of E-3A replacement; Wedgetail, GlobalEye in the running |last1=Martin |first1=Tim |date=24 February 2023 |website=Breaking Defense |access-date= 2 March 2023}}</ref><ref name="awst.osborne.2023.02.21">{{Cite magazine |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/boeing-saab-northrop-respond-nato-e-3-successor-calls |title=Boeing, Saab, Northrop Respond To NATO E-3 Successor Calls |last1=Osborne |first1=Tony |date=21 February 2023 |magazine=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] |url-access= subscription |access-date= 2 March 2023}}</ref> [[Saab AB|Saab]] and Northrop Grumman also responded to the RFI, offering, the [[GlobalEye]] and the [[Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye]], respectively.<ref name="awst.osborne.2023.02.21" /> 
In November 2023, NATO stated that the goal was to procure six E-7s to replace their E-3s, to begin operations in 2031. The E-7 was expected to be based at [[NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen|Geilenkirchen]] and could have operated from several forward locations across Europe.<ref name="NATO">{{cite web |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=15 November 2023 |title=NATO strengthens situational awareness with next generation of command and control aircraft |url=https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news_219907.htm |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=NATO |publisher= |quote=}}</ref> 
In November 2025, the [[Ministry of Defence (Netherlands)|Dutch Ministry of Defence]] on behalf of NATO announced the cancellation of the acquisition of the  E-7.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Newdick |first=Thomas |date=2025-11-13 |title=E-7 Wedgetail Radar Jet Procurement Plans Axed By NATO |url=https://www.twz.com/air/e-7-wedgetail-radar-jet-plans-axed-by-nato-nations |access-date=2025-11-13 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}</ref> 
Due to the E-7 program losing its "strategic and financial basis" in addition to the United States leaving the program in July that resulted in significant changes to NATO's AWACS program.<ref name=":3" />

====United Arab Emirates====
The Wedgetail was a competitor for the [[United Arab Emirates]]' AEW&C program in 2007.<ref name="awst.wall.2009.12.01">{{cite web |url=https://aviationweek.com/middle-east-militaries-focus-surveillance-missile-defense |title=Middle East militaries focus on surveillance, missile defense |first1=Robert |last1=Wall |location=Dubai, United Arab Emirates |date=1 December 2007 |website=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] |access-date=3 March 2023}}</ref><ref name="idex2007">{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/idex/story.php?id=2568280 |title=Northrop Grumman E-2D Back in Competition for UAEAF AEW Platform |website=[[Defense News]]}} {{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}. 22 February 2007.</ref> In 2015, UAE selected the Saab GlobalEye over the Wedgetail and the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye.<ref name="awst.batey.2015.11.10">{{cite web |url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/dubai-airshow/uae-saab-strike-127-billion-erieye-deal |title=UAE, Saab Strike $1.27 Billion Erieye Deal |date=10 November 2015 |first1=Angus |last1=Batey |website=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]] |access-date=3 March 2023}}</ref>

====Qatar====
In 2014, Qatar stated it planned to purchase three 737 AEW&C aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |last=Menon |first=Praveen |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/qatar-defence-idUSL5N0MO3VV20140327 |title=Update 2-Qatar buys helicopters, missiles in $23 bln arms deals |date=27 March 2014 |work=[[Reuters]] |access-date=30 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924195220/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/27/qatar-defence-idUSL5N0MO3VV20140327 |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2018, Qatar decided not to proceed with the planned purchase.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/83903/qatar-opts-not-to-complete-e-737-aew-c-deal |title=Qatar opts not to complete E-737 AEW&C; deal |date=18 October 2018 |last1=Jennings |first1=Gareth |location=London |website=Jane's 360 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181019114432/https://www.janes.com/article/83903/qatar-opts-not-to-complete-e-737-aew-c-deal |archive-date= 19 October 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/qatars-air-force-multipliers-aerial-tankers-and-aewc-023077/ |title=Qatar's Air Force Multipliers: Aerial Tankers and AEW&C |date=24 May 2019 |website=Defense Industry Daily |access-date=3 March 2023}}</ref>

==Operators==
[[File:E-7A_operators-4.png|thumb|upright=1.5|A map with 737 AEW&C operators in blue]]

===Current operators===
;{{AUS}}
* [[Royal Australian Air Force]] – 6 in service, designated "E-7A Wedgetail"<ref name="E7A">[http://news.defence.gov.au/2012/11/30/raaf%E2%80%99s-wedgetail-squadron-marks-history-by-celebrating-battle-honours/ "RAAF's Wedgetail Squadron marks history by celebrating battle honours"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130411121341/http://news.defence.gov.au/2012/11/30/raaf%e2%80%99s-wedgetail-squadron-marks-history-by-celebrating-battle-honours/ |date=11 April 2013}}. Australian Department of Defence, 30 November 2012.</ref>
**[[RAAF Base Williamtown]], [[New South Wales]]
***[[No. 2 Squadron RAAF|No. 2 Squadron]]
;{{KOR}}
* [[Republic of Korea Air Force]] – 4 in service, designated "Peace Eye".<ref name=Key_4th_Peace_Eye/>
**51st Air Control Group
**271th Airborne Air Control Squadron<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/us-export-restrictions-hand-korean-ex-competition-to-us-firm-02497/ |title=WON By Default: Korea's E-737 AWACS |publisher=Defense Industry Daily |date=11 October 2016|access-date=2 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402095730/https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/us-export-restrictions-hand-korean-ex-competition-to-us-firm-02497/|archive-date=2 April 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{TUR}}
* [[Turkish Air Force]] – 4 in service, designated "E-7T Peace Eagle"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/56680/turkey-receives-final-peace-eagle-aew-c-platform |title=Turkey receives final Peace Eagle AEW&C platform |work=janes.com |access-date=28 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160105153848/http://www.janes.com/article/56680/turkey-receives-final-peace-eagle-aew-c-platform |archive-date=5 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>
**Airborne Warning Control Group Command.<ref>{{cite web |title=Point Air Defense Needs of the Turkish Air Force |url=https://www.defenceturkey.com/en/content/point-air-defense-needs-of-the-turkish-air-force-4775 |website=Defence Turkey |access-date=3 February 2024 |date=October 2021}}</ref>
;{{UK}}
* [[Royal Air Force]] – 3 on order, with potentially another 2 in the future.<ref name="5wedgetails"/><ref name=MOD_IR/> Designated "Wedgetail AEW1".
**[[No. 8 Squadron RAF|No. 8 Squadron]]

===Future operators===
;{{USA}}
* [[United States Air Force]] – 2 aircraft on order. In June 2025, the Pentagon cancelled USAF plans to acquire 26 aircraft, with the September 2025 Continuing Appropriations Act allocating $400 million to continue development of two prototypes.<ref name="boeing.pr.e-7a.2023.02.28" /><ref name="awst.e-7a.2023.02.28"/><ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=Losey |first=Stephen |date=2025-11-17 |title=Here are the major defense programs backed in shutdown-ending deal |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2025/11/17/here-are-the-major-defense-programs-backed-in-shutdown-ending-deal/ |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=Defense News |language=en}}</ref>

==Specifications==
[[File:B737 AEW&C Wedgetail (cropped).PNG|thumb|upright=1.5|Side view]]

{{Aircraft specs
|prime units?=imp
|ref=''Boeing''<ref>{{cite web |title=737 Airborne Early Warning and Control |url=http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/ic/aewc/docs/737AEWC_overview.pdf |work=Boeing |access-date=5 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629102223/http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/ic/aewc/docs/737AEWC_overview.pdf |archive-date=29 June 2011}}</ref>
|crew=mission: six to ten; flight: two<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.boeing.com/defense/airborne-early-warning-and-control/ |title=Boeing: Airborne Early Warning and Control |website=[[Boeing]] |access-date=30 May 2021 |language=en}}</ref>
|capacity = 43,720 lb (19,830 kg)
|length ft= 110
|length in= 4
|length m= 33.6
|span ft= 117
|span in= 2
|span m= 35.8
|height ft= 41
|height in= 2
|height m= 12.5
|wing area sqft= 980
|wing area sqm= 91
|airfoil= B737D
|empty weight lb= 102750
|empty weight kg= 46606
|max takeoff weight lb= 171000
|max takeoff weight kg= 77600
|eng1 name=[[CFM International]]
|eng1 type=[[CFM International CFM56|CFM56-7B27A]] [[turbofan]] engines
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 lbf=27300
|eng1 kn=121
|cruise speed mph= 530
|cruise speed kmh= 853
|range nmi= 3500
|range km= 6500
|ceiling ft= 41000
|ceiling m= 12500
|avionics=* Northrop Grumman [[Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array]] radar
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{Aircontent
|see also=
|related=
* [[Boeing 737]]
* [[Boeing C-40 Clipper]]
* [[Boeing P-8 Poseidon]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Boeing E-767]]
* [[Boeing E-3 Sentry]]
* [[Embraer R-99]]
* [[Gulfstream G550 CAEW]]
* [[GlobalEye]]
|lists=
}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
* {{Official website}}
* [https://www.airforce.gov.au/technology/aircraft/intelligence-surveillance-and-reconnaissance/e-7a-wedgetail RAAF E-7 Wedgetail page]
* [https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircraft/wedgetail-aew-mk1/ RAF Wedgetail AEW Mk1 page]

{{US EW aircraft}}
{{Boeing 737 family}}
{{Boeing military aircraft}}
{{Boeing model numbers}}
{{ADF aircraft prefixes}}

[[Category:Boeing 737|737 AEWandC]]
[[Category:2000s United States command and control aircraft]]
[[Category:Twinjets]]
[[Category:AWACS aircraft]]
[[Category:Boeing Australia aircraft|737 AEWandC]]
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 2004]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]]
[[Category:Boeing aircraft]]