UK Firm to Begin Work on US Air Force Wedgetail Aircraft
•February 18, 2026
0
Why It Matters
The deal showcases the UK’s re‑emergence as a supplier to US defence projects, potentially unlocking export revenue, while the US’s procurement doubts could limit further work.
Key Takeaways
- •STS Aviation to convert first two USAF E-7 Wedgetails.
- •First UK-built military aircraft for US in over 50 years.
- •Contract valued at undisclosed amount, boosting UK aerospace sector.
- •US E-7 programme faces budget and schedule challenges.
- •Potential for further UK‑US defence collaboration if programme proceeds.
Pulse Analysis
The partnership between Boeing and STS Aviation signals a strategic shift in the transatlantic defence supply chain. By handling the early conversion stage of the E‑7 Wedgetail, a sophisticated airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) platform, the Birmingham‑based firm gains exposure to high‑value US military technology. This contract not only diversifies the UK’s aerospace portfolio but also reinforces the country’s credibility as a reliable partner for complex systems integration, a capability that has been underleveraged since the Cold War era.
Despite the commercial upside, the US Air Force’s commitment to a full‑scale E‑7 fleet remains tentative. Recent defence budget proposals have highlighted cost overruns, delayed timelines, and questions over survivability, prompting lawmakers to adopt a cautious stance. While two prototype aircraft have been funded, the lack of a firm procurement schedule introduces risk for downstream suppliers like STS Aviation, whose future work could hinge on the programme’s eventual scale‑up or cancellation.
Looking ahead, the contract could serve as a foothold for broader UK‑US defence collaboration. Success in converting the initial aircraft may open doors to additional work on radar upgrades, software integration, and sustainment services, aligning with the United Kingdom’s broader export‑oriented defence strategy. Moreover, the visibility of a UK firm contributing to a flagship US platform may encourage other American prime contractors to source niche expertise from British companies, potentially reshaping the competitive dynamics of the global aerospace market.
UK firm to begin work on US Air Force Wedgetail aircraft
A UK-based aviation company has been contracted by Boeing to undertake the initial conversion work on the first two US Air Force E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, the Ministry of Defence has confirmed.
In a written parliamentary answer published on 17 February, Defence Minister Luke Pollard said that STS Aviation, based at Birmingham Airport, is already under contract to carry out the early conversion stage on two Boeing 737 aircraft that are intended to be configured as E-7 Wedgetail airborne early warning and control platforms.
Pollard was responding to a question from Liberal Democrat MP James MacCleary, who asked whether the Government could confirm that a firm contract had been placed with UK industry to convert two aircraft for end use by the US Air Force. Pollard said: “STS Aviation based at Birmingham airport are under contract from Boeing to undertake initial conversion of the first two USAF E-7 Wedgetail aircraft.”
The response follows a Ministry of Defence press release issued in September 2025 which said the UK was set to build military aircraft for the United States for the first time in more than fifty years, describing the work as a major industrial boost.
The E-7 Wedgetail is a Boeing 737-based airborne early warning aircraft equipped with a multi-role electronically scanned array radar. The platform is currently operated by several allied air forces and has been selected by the UK to replace its retired E-3D Sentry fleet.
However, while the US Air Force has funded development of two prototype aircraft, it remains unclear whether the United States will proceed with a full fleet purchase. Recent US defence budget proposals have signalled a move away from committing to large-scale procurement of the E-7, citing cost growth, schedule concerns and survivability issues, although the programme continues to receive political support in Congress.
The post UK firm to begin work on US Air Force Wedgetail aircraft first appeared on UK Defence Journal.
0
Comments
Want to join the conversation?
Loading comments...