The F-15 Eagle is probably the most recognizable military jet fighter in the skies today having held the distinction of the premier jet fighter over the past 30 years. The F-15 is the only operational jet fighter to have never been shot down in combat. Along with the US, the air forces of Israel, Saudi Arabi, and Japan have all flown the F-15.
The F-15 was designed to remain highly maneuverable in all weather conditions and to carry a variety of weapons. The F-15′s superior maneuverability and acceleration are achieved through high engine thrust-to-weight ratio and low wing loading. Low wing-loading is a vital factor in maneuverability and, combined with the high thrust-to-weight ratio, enables the aircraft to turn tightly without losing airspeed.
The pilot’s head-up display projects on the windscreen all essential flight information gathered by the integrated avionics system. This display, visible in any light condition, provides information necessary to track and destroy an enemy aircraft without having to look down at cockpit instruments.
The first F-15A flight was made in July 1972, and the first flight of the two-seat F-15B trainer was made in July 1973. The first Eagle F-15B was delivered in November 1974, and in January 1976, the first Eagle destined for a combat squadron was delivered.
The single-seat F-15C and two-seat F-15D models entered the Air Force inventory beginning in 1979.
The F-15E Strike Eagle is a two-seat, dual-role, totally integrated fighter for all-weather, air-to-air and deep interdiction missions, 237 were built between 1985-2001. The rear cockpit is upgraded to include four multi-purpose CRT displays for aircraft systems and weapons management. The digital, triple-redundant Lear Siegler flight control system permits coupled automatic terrain following, enhanced by a ring-laser gyro inertial navigation system.
Specifications
Speed: 1,875 mph
Range: 2,400 miles
Height: 18 feet 8 inches
Length: 63 feet 9 inches
Wingspan: 42 feet, 10 inches
Weight: 68,000 pounds
