F15

The F-15 Eagle is an American twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter developed by McDonnell Douglas for the United States Air Force. It first flew in 1972 and entered service in 1976. Designed to achieve and hold air superiority, it emphasizes speed, altitude performance, robust survivability, and a large weapons payload. The F-15 has been widely used by the United States and by allied air forces, and it remains in service with several operators after decades of upgrades.

Development and design: Initiated in the 1960s to counter new Soviet fighters and bombers, the F-15 program prioritized superior climb rate, acceleration, and radar capability. The original F-15A/B provided air-to-air supremacy, while later F-15C/D variants improved avionics and endurance. In the late 1980s the two-seat F-15E Strike Eagle added ground-attack capability, using conformal fuel tanks and upgraded sensors to perform long-range strike missions in addition to air superiority.

Variants and operators: The primary operator is the United States Air Force, with international versions produced or operated by Japan (F-15J), Israel (F-15I), Saudi Arabia (F-15SA), Singapore (F-15SG), South Korea (F-15K), and Qatar (F-15QA). The United States has introduced the F-15EX to modernize the fleet. Common traits across variants include twin cockpits on two-seat models and a strong emphasis on versatility and survivability.

Operational characteristics: The F-15 family is known for high maneuverability, thick airframe, and a robust sensor suite supported by air-to-air missiles and guided munitions. It has seen extensive combat use, notably in the Gulf War and subsequent conflicts, and has earned a reputation for a favorable kill ratio in air-to-air engagements.