Aircraft
Controversy Develops over RAF AEW&C Fleet
British air arm must choose between upgrading the E-3D Sentry or buying a new aircraft—possibly the Boeing Wedgetail.
The RAF fleet of six E-3D Sentry AEW&C aircraft is only partly serviceable. (Photo: MoD Crown Copyright)
The RAF fleet of six E-3D Sentry AEW&C aircraft is only partly serviceable. (Photo: MoD Crown Copyright)

The Royal Air Force has an aging and only part-serviceable fleet of six E-3D Sentry AEW&C aircraft that have not been upgraded in parallel with similar aircraft operated by the U.S. and jointly by NATO. Something must be done, and some observers believe that the RAF wants to buy Boeing’s Wedgetail system based on the 737 airframe, without a competition. Two years ago, the UK chose the Boeing P-8 as its new maritime patrol aircraft, also based on the 737 and without a competition.