F-15 Eagle AKA the "Strike Eagle" 

The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is one of the most iconic and successful air superiority fighters ever built. Entering service in 1976 with the United States Air Force (USAF), it was designed to secure air dominance in any conflict, and it has proven its worth in countless operations over the decades.

Key Features:

• Role: Air superiority, multirole (later variants)

• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing)

• First Flight: July 27, 1972

• Introduction: 1976 (U.S. Air Force)

• Top Speed: Mach 2.5 (1,650 mph or 2,655 km/h)

• Range: 2,400 miles (3,860 km) with external tanks

• Armament: 20mm M61 Vulcan gun, AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM, and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, and a variety of bombs for multirole variants.

• Crew: 1 (F-15A/B) or 2 (F-15E)

• Variants: Includes F-15A (single-seat), F-15B (two-seat trainer), F-15C/D (upgraded versions), and F-15E Strike Eagle (multirole variant).

Design and Capabilities:

The F-15 was built with a focus on unmatched air superiority, capable of achieving and maintaining control of the skies in a variety of combat situations. The aircraft's design features a high-mounted wing, which contributes to excellent maneuverability, and its powerful engines allow it to reach speeds over Mach 2.5, enabling it to engage enemy aircraft at long ranges.

The F-15’s advanced radar and avionics systems allow it to detect and track enemy aircraft at great distances, while the ability to carry a wide array of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons gives it tremendous versatility. Over the years, the F-15 has been adapted to multirole capabilities, with the F-15E Strike Eagle serving as a modern, dual-role fighter that can conduct both air superiority and ground attack missions.

Combat Record:

The F-15’s combat record is nothing short of extraordinary. The F-15C, in particular, has a nearly perfect air-to-air kill ratio of 104 kills to zero losses (as of the latest reports). It has been involved in numerous air combat engagements, including:

• The Gulf War (1991): F-15s played a significant role in the U.S.-led coalition’s air campaign, establishing air superiority over Iraq and engaging in strikes against military targets.
  
  

• Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003): F-15s provided both air superiority and close air support, showing their adaptability and effectiveness in modern warfare.
  
  

• Other operations: F-15s have seen action in various conflicts around the world, including the Balkans, Afghanistan, and even as part of NATO air policing missions.
  
  

Modern Updates and Continued Service:

Though the F-15 was designed in the 1970s, it remains one of the most capable and relevant fighters in service today, thanks to continuous upgrades over the years. The F-15C/D variants have seen enhancements in their radar, weapons systems, and avionics. The F-15E Strike Eagle continues to serve in roles requiring precision strikes and advanced ground attack capabilities.

In addition to the U.S. Air Force, the F-15 has been widely exported to allied nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Japan, and South Korea, where it remains a cornerstone of air forces worldwide. The F-15EX, a recent upgrade to the Eagle, is a newer version equipped with the latest technology, including advanced radar, weapon systems, and greater integration with modern military infrastructure.