McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle

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McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing ) F-15E Strike Eagle is an American multirole strike fighter originally from McDonnell Douglas F-15 Burung. The F-15E was designed in 1980 for long distance, high-speed interdiction without relying on escort aircraft or electronic warfare. The United States Air Force (USAF) F-15E Strike Eagles can be distinguished from other US Elan variants with darker camouflage aircraft and conformal fuel tanks mounted along the engine's entrance path (although CFT can also be mounted on previous F-15 variants).

The Strike Eagle has been deployed for military operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Libya, among others. During this operation, the F-15E has carried out deep attacks on high-value targets, combat air patrols, and provided close air support for coalition forces. It has also been exported to several countries.

Video McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle

Development

Origins

The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle has been introduced by the United States Air Force (USAF) in lieu of the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom IIs fleet. However, unlike the F-4, the F-15 was designed for air superiority missions with little consideration for the role of ground attack; The F-15 Special Project Office opposed the idea of â€‹â€‹the F-15's interdiction mission, giving rise to the phrase "Not a pound for air to the ground." In service, the F-15 has been a very successful fighter, with more than 100 air combat victories and zero losses in air-to-air combat in 2007.

Despite his lack of official interest, McDonnell Douglas secretly worked on an F-15 interdictor fighter. The company envisioned the aircraft as a replacement for the remaining General Dynamics F-111 and F-4, as well as to add to the existing F-15. In 1978, USAF initiated the Tactical All Weather Needs Study (TAWRS) which looked at McDonnell Douglas's proposal and other options such as further F-111Fs purchases. TAWRS recommends the F-15E as a future USAF attack platform. In 1979, McDonnell Douglas and Hughes embarked on a close collaboration in the development of F-15E air-to-ground capabilities.

To assist in the development of the F-15E, McDonnell Douglas modified the second TF-15A prototype, AF serial number 71-0291 , as a demonstrator. The aircraft, known as the Advanced Fighter Capability Demonstrator, first flew on 8 July 1980. Previously used for conformal fuel tank experiments (CFT), originally designed for the F-15 under the "QUICK Pack" designation, with FAST stands for "Fuel and Sensor, Tactical." It is then fitted with a Pave Tack laser designer that targets pods to allow independent guided bomb deliveries demonstrated at the 1980 Farnborough Airshow.

Enhanced Tactical Fighter

In March 1981, USAF announced the Enhanced Tactical Fighter (ETF) program to obtain an F-111 replacement. The program was later renamed the Dual-Role Fighter (DRF) competition. The concept envisioned an aircraft capable of launching deep air interdiction missions without the need for additional support by combat fighters or distractions. General Dynamics filed the F-16XL, while McDonnell Douglas filed the F-15E. Panavia Tornado was also a candidate, but because the aircraft did not have a credible air superiority combat capability, coupled with the fact that it was not American-made, it was not taken seriously.

The DRF evaluation team, under the direction of Brigadier General Ronald W. Yates, ran from 1981 to 30 April 1983, in which the F-15E recorded over 200 flights, showing a take-off weight of over 75,000 pounds (34 Ã‚ Â°), and validating six twelve different gun carrier configurations. McDonnell Douglas, to assist 71-0291 in the evaluation, adding to other F-15 programs, designated 78-0468 , 80-0055 and 81-0063 . The F-16XL single engine is a promising design, with its radically redesigned delta wing, greatly improving performance; if selected, one and two-seat versions should be named F-16E and F-16F, respectively. On 24 February 1984, the USAF selected the F-15E; the main factor in the decision was the lower F-15E development cost compared to F-16XL (US $ 270 million versus US $ 470 million), confidence that the F-15E has potential for future growth, and has twin engine redundancy. The USAF was originally expected to get 400 aircraft, a figure later revised to 392.

The construction of the first three F-15Es began in July 1985. The first, 86-0183, made its maiden flight on December 11, 1986. Disconnected by Gary Jennings, the aircraft reached Mach 0.9's maximum speed and a height of 40,000 foot (12,000 m) for 75 minutes flight. The aircraft has a full F-15E avionics suite and a redesigned front fuselage, but not the stern of the aircraft and the common bay engine. The latter is shown on 86-0184 , while 86-0185 merges all F-15E changes from the F-15. On March 31, 1987, the first official F-15E finished its first flight.

The first production of the F-15E was delivered to the 405th Tactical Training Wing, Luke Air Force Base, Arizona in April 1988. Production continued into the 2000s with 236 produced for the USAF until 2001.

Upgrade programs and replacements

The F-15E will be upgraded with the Raytheon APG-82 Active Electronically Scan Array (AESA) radar after 2007, and the first test radar delivered to Boeing in 2010. It incorporates the APG-79 processor used on the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet with an APG-63 (V) 3 AESA antenna mounted on the F-15C. The new radar upgrade is part of the R-15E Modernization Radar Program. The new radar named APG-63 (V) 4 to receive APG-82 designation in 2009. RMP also includes radeb wideband (to allow AESA to operate at more radar frequencies), and improvements to environmental controls and electronic warfare systems.

Having a stronger airframe rated for twice the lifetime of previous variants, the F-15E is expected to remain in operation after 2025. In December 2012, the USAF F-15E fleet has an average age of 21 years and the average flight time of the airframe 6,000 hours. In 2012, the Air Force reportedly considered future options; no replacement is scheduled for F-15E. One option is the F-35 Lightning II, set to replace other attackers such as the F-16 Falcon and A-10 Thunderbolt II; the "F-35E" variant has been studied. It would be complicated, and thus expensive, to add a second seat to the F-35, especially to maintain its stealth profile; providing greater reach and payload will also be a difficult task. Alternatively, the role may be covered by a combination of fighter and bomber, such as the planned Remote Bomber Attack. The F-15E can also be replaced by a clean sixth generation plane design.

ALASA

On March 24, 2014, Boeing won a $ 30.6 million contract from DARPA as part of the Airborne Launch Assist Space Access (ALASA) program. The goal of the program is to cut the cost of placing microsatellite into orbit by 66 percent through progress in the launch system. Under an 11-month contract, Boeing will build twelve-four feet (7.3 m) of launch vehicles, each with a payload capacity of up to 100 pounds (45 kg). An ALASA vehicle will be installed under the F-15E, which will rise to 40,000 feet, then released and fire the four engines to reach low Earth orbit. The award of the contract to Boeing will utilize the F-15E as a carrier vehicle, as previous design contracts have been awarded to Lockheed Martin to use the F-22 Raptor and Virgin Galactic to use their SpaceShip Two aircraft. DARPA has previously confirmed they want to choose aircraft that they do not need modifications to carry and launch the payload of ALASA.

Maps McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle

Design

The F-15E's in-depth attack mission is a radical departure from the original F-15 goal, as the F-15 is designed as an air superiority fighter with a spell "not a pound for air to land." The basic airframe, however, proved to be flexible enough to produce a highly qualified fighter attack. The F-15E, while designed for ground attack, maintains the air-to-air lethality of the F-15, and can defend itself against enemy aircraft.

The F-15E prototype is a modification of two F-15B seats. The F-15E, regardless of its origin, includes significant structural changes and a much stronger engine. The rear body is designed to combine more powerful engines with sophisticated engine bay structures and doors. The advanced structure uses Superplastic forming and diffusion bonding (SPF/DB) technology. The rear seats are equipped for weapon system officers (WSO pronounced 'wizzo') for new air-to-ground avionics work. The WSO uses multiple screens to display information from radar, electronic warfare, or Thermographic cameras, monitor aircraft or weapon status and possible threats, select targets, and use electronic moving maps to navigate. Two hand controls are used to select a new look and to improve targeting information. Displays can be moved from one screen to another, selected from the display options menu. Unlike previous two-place jets (eg F-14 Tomcat and Navy F-4 variants), whose rear seats do not have flying controls, the F-15E cockpit rear seats are equipped with sticks and throttles themselves so that WSO can take over the flight, albeit with less visibility.

To expand its range, the F-15E is equipped with two conformal fuel tanks (CFT) that embrace the aircraft. This results in lower drag than conventional underwing/underbelly drop tanks. They carry 750 gallons of US (2,800 liters) of fuel, and house six weapon hooks in two rows of three in tandem. Unlike conventional drop tanks, CFT is not discardable, so the improved range is offset by degraded performance from increased drag and weight compared to "clean" configurations. Similar tanks can be mounted on the F-15C/D and export variants, and the Israeli Air Force uses this option on their F-15 combat variant and the F-15I variant of the Strike Eagle, but the F-15 -15E is the only US variant routinely equipped with CFT.

The Strike Eagle (TEWS) tactical electronic warfare system combines all countermeasures on aircraft: radar warning receivers (RWRs), radar jammers, radar, and chaff/flare dispensers are all tied to TEWS to provide a comprehensive defense against detection and tracking. This system includes an externally mounted ALQ-131 ECM pod that is brought to the center mast when needed.

The APG-70 radar system allows the air crew to detect land targets from further distances. One feature of this system is that after sweeping the target area, the crew freezes the air-to-ground map and then returns to air-to-air mode to clear the air threat. During air-to-surface weapons shipments, pilots are able to detect, target and engage air-to-air targets while the WSO sets ground targets. The APG-70 will be replaced by the scanned electronically active A/A (AESA) AN/APG-82 (AESA), which commenced flight tests in January 2010 with initial operational capability expected in 2014.

The inertial navigation system uses a laser gyroscope to continuously monitor the position of the aircraft and provide information to the central computer and other systems, including digital moving maps in both cockpit. Low altitude navigation and infrared targeting for night systems (LANTIRN) are installed externally below machine intake; it allows aircraft at low altitudes, at night and under any weather conditions, to attack ground targets with precision-directed and precision-guided weapons. The LANTIRN system delivers superb F-15E accuracy in the delivery of weapons day or night and in bad weather, and consists of two pods attached to the exterior of the aircraft. At night, video images from LANTIRN can be projected on the HUD, generating infrared images from the ground.

The navigation pad contains a radar that follows a field that allows the pilot to fly safely at very low altitudes following the gestures displayed on the head display. This system can also be paired with an autopilot plane to provide the ability to "overcome" the terrain. In addition, pods contain a forward infrared system projected on a pilot HUD used during the night or low visibility operations. AN/AAQ-13 Pod Nav is installed under the proper engine intake.

The targeting pod contains laser markers and a tracking system that marks the enemy for destruction as far as 10 mi (16 km). Once the tracking has started, targeting information is automatically submitted to air-to-surface infrared homing missiles or laser-guided bombs. Pod targeting installed below left machine intake; configuration can be AN/AAQ-14 Target Pod, AN/AAQ-28 LITENING Target Pod or AN/AAQ-33 Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod.

The F-15E carries most of the weapons from air to ground in the USAF inventory. It is also armed with AIM-9 Sidewinders and AIM-120 AMRAAM. Because the Eagle Strike retains the counter-water capabilities of the Eagle lineage, it is regularly trained for anti-air missions, and fully capable for Offensive-Counter-Water. Like the F-15C, the Strike Eagle also carries an internally-built Internal M61A1 20 mm cannon that is effective against enemy aircraft and "soft" ground targets.

The MIDS Data Fighter Data Terminal, produced by BAE Systems, raises situational awareness and communication skills via a 16 datalink link.

Since 2004, South Korean company LIG Nex1 has produced Head-up F-15 display; a total of 150 HUDs were delivered in 2011. LIG Nex1 has been a participant in the F-15K program as a subcontractor for Rockwell Collins. LIG Nex1 is also preparing to create a new multi-function display and flight control computer F-15. Also since 2004, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has produced wings and advanced F-15 aircraft; in 2008, KAI established another production line for F-15SG Singapore. KAI is involved in developing and manufacturing Conformal Weapons Bay (CWB) for use on the F-15 Silent Eagle.

The engine used for the first batch of F-15E Strike Eagle and its variant is Pratt & amp; Whitney F100-PW-220. Then batch more powerful features P & amp; W F100-PW-229 engine. Export versions for Saudi Arabia and Israel use P & amp; W F100-229. In 2008, Saudi Arabia decided to revive their F-15S fleet plane with General Electric F110-GE-129 engine. Their F-15SA fleet will also be powered by GE F110 engine. The F-15K of South Korea comes with two different engine variants. The first batch is powered by a GE F110 engine, while the second batch is powered by a P & amp; W F100. The Singapore Air Force complements their F-15SG fleet with the GE F110 engine.

91-0316 - USA - Air Force McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle at ...

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Operational history

United States

The F-15E achieved initial operational capability on Sept. 30, 1989 at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina with the 4th Tactical Combat Wing, 336th Tactical Combatron Tactical.

Desert Shield and Desert Storm Operations

The F-15E was deployed in response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 for Operation Desert Shield. 336th Tactical Combatron Squadron flew to Seeb Air Base in Oman to begin training exercises to anticipate Iraq's attack on Saudi Arabia; in December, 335th and 336th squadrons were transferred to Prince Sultan's air base in Saudi Arabia, closer to the Iraqi border. At the start of Operation Desert Storm, 24 F-15Es launched an attack on five Scud installations remained in western Iraq on January 17, 1991. The mission against the Scud site continued throughout the night with a second assault of 21 F-15Es. At night, the F-15Es flew hunting missions over western Iraq, searching for mobile SCUD launchers. By conducting random bombings in suspected areas, it is expected to deter Iraqis from preparing for the Scud launch.

On the eve of the opening of the war, the F-15E fired the AIM-9 Sidewinder on the MiG-29, which failed to reach its target. Other F-15Es simultaneously and unsuccessfully involved a single MiG-29, which was eventually carried by missiles from unknown sources. On January 18, during an attack on oil and gasoline factories near Basrah, an F-15E was lost due to enemy fire, pilots and WSO were killed. The F-15E crew described this mission as the most difficult and dangerous of war because it is highly defended by SA-3, SA-6s, SA-8s and Rolands as well as by anti-aircraft artillery. Two nights later, the second and last F-15E was turned off by the Iraqi SA-2; the crew survived and avoided capture for several days and made contact with the coalition aircraft, but the rescue was not launched due to security concerns, a pilot failed to identify himself with the proper code. The two pilots were then captured by the Iraqis.

The F-15E was able to destroy 18 Iraqi jets in the field at Tallil air base using GBU-12 and CBU-87. On February 14, the F-15E scored the only air-to-air attack of the war: a Mil Mi-24 helicopter. While responding to requests for assistance by US Special Forces, five Iraqi helicopters were seen. The F-15E led two men to a helicopter via FLIR in the process of dismantling the Iraqi army, and releasing the GBU-10 bomb. The F-15E crew thought the bomb had lost its target and was preparing to use the Sidewinder when the helicopter was destroyed. The Special Forces team estimated that the Hind was about 800 feet (240 m) above the ground when a 2,000-pound (910 kg) bomb hit its target. When the Coalition bombing operation had begun, the F-15E broke free from fighting with the remaining helicopters.

The F-15E attacks a wide range of highly defensible targets across Iraq, prioritizing SCUD missile sites. The mission with the aim of killing Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was carried out with several locations suspected of being bombed by the F-15Es. Prior to the operational war phase, the F-15Es undertook a tank mounting mission on Iraqi vehicles in Kuwait. After 42 days of fierce fighting, a ceasefire came into force on 1 March 1991, which led to the establishment of a no-fly zone of North and South over Iraq.

Operation Southern Watch and Northern Watch

Following the Desert Storm, two no-fly zones in Iraq were established, and are usually enforced by US and British aircraft. In one incident, an attack on 600 Kurdish refugees by Iraqi helicopters in Chamchamal, northern Iraq, was observed by F-15Es flight. Because they were not allowed to fire, the F-15E instead made some high speed as close as possible to Iraqi helicopters to create a severe wave-wake, while pointing lasers at the helicopter cockpit to try to blind their crew; this caused the fall of one Hind. After that, the USAF leadership ordered the F-15Es not to fly below 10,000 feet (3,000 m) to prevent repetition.

The F-15E from the Combat Squadron 391, the 492d Combatron Squadron, and the 494 Combat Squadron were regularly deployed to Turkey throughout the 1990s. In January 1993, Iraqi targets in violation of the ceasefire agreement under the 32nd northern parallel were attacked; 10 F-15Es went on strike days later. Most missions are defensive, Strike Eagles carry a flexible weapon on a distinctive mission. The AWACS plane is in close contact with the F-15E crew, who will receive a new assignment while in the air and thus be able to fly unplanned attacks on Iraqi targets. After 1993, the violation of the no-fly zone was minimal as Iraq made a small withdrawal; in 1997 Turkey approved the creation of Northern Watch Operation (ONW) and allowed US troops to use the Incirlik air base.

In December 1998, Operation Desert Fox performed when Iraq refused UNSCOM inspection. On December 28, 1998, three F-15Es each dropped two GBU-12 500-pound precision guided bullets (PGMs) to successfully attack the SA-3 tracking radar and optical guide unit. After Desert Fox, Iraq increased its violation of the no-fly zone, resulting in a number of counter-attacks and pre-planned by F-15Es; on ONW only, the weapons were spent for at least 105 days. Between 24 and 26 January 1999, the F-15Es released several AGM-130s and GBU-12s against SAM sites in northern Iraq near Mosul. Several F-15Es also flew to support Operation Deliver Comfort and Operation Giving Leisure II.

Operation in Balkan

The Deny Flight operation is a UN-imposed no-fly zone against Bosnia and Herzegovina because of the deteriorating situation in the Balkans. In August 1993, F-15E from 492d and 494 FS were deployed to Aviano, Italy. In late 1993, NATO ordered a limited F-15E attack on the Udbina air base, targeting Serb forces in neighboring Croatia. Eight F-15Es armed with GBU-12 were launched to attack an SA-6 anti-aircraft vehicle; the mission was canceled in the middle of the flight over the strict application of the Rules of Engagement. In December 1993, the F-15Es were launched to destroy a pair of SA-2 sites that have fired on two Royal Navy Sea Harrier FRS 1s. In August 1995, the F-15E from the 90th Combat Squadron joined two other squadrons. The 492d and 494 flew over 2,500 sudden attacks since Deny Flight started, 2,000 of which were 492d. In August 1995, in support of the NATO Operations Armed Forces, the F-15Es flew a strike mission against Serbian armor and logistics around the capital of Bosnia, Sarajevo. On September 9th, the F-15E deployed the first GBU-15 bombs for the type; a total of nine falls against Bosnian and Serbian ground forces and air defense targets around Banja Luka.

In response to the displacement of Kosovo and the Serb government's refusal of NATO ultimatum, Allied Operation Force was launched in March 1999. A total of 26 F-15Es flew first Allied Forces attacks against Serbian surface-to-air missile sites, anti-aircraft batteries and radar stations early warning. Strike Eagles are deployed to Aviano as well as RAF Lakenheath in the UK. In the theater, the F-15E performed close air support missions, a new idea in the late 1990s that has since become a popular concept within the USAF. The mission usually lasts about 7.5 hours, including two refueling air; The F-15E will carry a mixture of air-to-air and air-to-ground ammunition to perform both combat air patrol duties as well as strike missions within the same mission. The SAM mobile launcher poses a major threat to NATO aircraft and has successfully fired, especially Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk. To attack from a longer distance, the F-15E is equipped with AGM-130, which provides the ability to strike.

Operation Enduring Freedom

A few weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, combat-forward squadron was deployed to Ahmad al-Jaber air base, Kuwait, to support Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The F-15Es encountered little resistance during the initial mission. On the first night, the main target was the Taliban military structure, supply depot, and al-Qaeda and cave training camp. Both AGM-130 and GBU-15 2,000 pound (910 kg) bombs have been removed; this is the first use of GBU-15 combat. GBU-24 and GBU-28 are used to strengthen targets, command and control centers, and cave entrances. The F-15E is often operated in pairs alongside F-16Cs pairs. Within a few weeks since the start of combat operations, there was a lack of targets to attack as almost all targets had been destroyed. The Taliban has access to surface-to-air missiles SA-7 and FIM-92 portable Stingers, posing no threat to most aircraft over 7,000 feet (2,100 m). In addition, fixing SAM sites near cities like Mazar-i-Sharif and Bagram were hit early; Afghanistan is rapidly becoming a low-threat environment for air operations.

Aircraft generally fly on call support missions for ground forces allies, F-15Es usually carry MK-82 and GBU-12 bombs in this role, other weapons are sometimes done, during one GBU-28 mission, two GBU-24 and six GBU-12 released. Targets that often occur during the rest of the war are individual rebels, light vehicles, and supply convoys; cannon fire is often issued and also bombs of the F-15Es. During the battle in Afghanistan, four 391 crews performed the longest combat missions in history; lasts a total of 15.5 hours, nine of them spend hours flying above the target area. Two F-15Es attacked two Taliban command and control facilities, two buildings allegedly used by Taliban fighters, and a block of roads; F-15Es refuel 12 times during missions.

On March 4, another incident now known as the Battle of Roberts' Ridge involves several F-15Es that have initiated close air support missions for ground troops. The aircraft destroyed the Taliban observation post and responded to nearby enemy mortar fire against Navy SEAL troops in search of ambush MH-47E Chinook in the Shah-i-Kot Valley. Several bombs were dropped because the SEAL team was still firing, but one bomb failed because the wrong coordinates were inserted by aircrew. An MH-47 brings the rescue team has fallen by the RPG while trying to support the SEAL. Following refueling, the F-15Es dropped 11 GBU-12 further in coordination with ground forces, and fired their cannons at Taliban forces near the survivors of the falling MH-47. An F-16 section of the 18th Combatron Squadron does dredging as well until the ammunition cannon runs out, before switching to further bombs. The F-15E was influenced by technical problems involving radio and weapons that failed, some GBU-12 dropped before returning to Al Jaber in Kuwait.

Years later, several incidents have occurred. On August 23, 2007, a friendly fire incident involving the F-15E mistakenly dropped a 500-pound (230 kg) bomb on British troops; three soldiers were killed. The stated cause is confusion between the air controller and the F-15E crew on bombing coordinates. On September 13, 2009, an F-15E shot down a MQ-9 Reaper drone unresponsive to Northern Afghanistan to prevent it from entering foreign airspace.

Operation Iraqi Freedom

At the end of 2002, as long as the suspense over possession of weapons of mass destruction of Iraq allegedly, the 4th Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base was ordered to keep at least one squadron ready to deploy to the Persian Gulf. During January 2003, 336 were deployed to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, a total of 24 aircraft deployed in coordination with the planners of the Combined Air Operations Center at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia. In late January, the F-15E began to fly in support of Operation Southern Watch, usually conducting surveillance and surveillance missions. Additional missions include simulated battles against potential Iraqi targets and regional introductions with local procedures and engagement rules. During OSW, the F-15E struck a number of targets in southern and western Iraq, including radar, radio communications and relay stations, command and control websites, and air defense. On one night, four F-15Es released several GBU-24s on the Iraqi Republican Guard/Baath Party HQ in Basrah while another four flights destroyed the nearest Air Sector HQ with six GBU-10.

By the end of February, 336 received an additional aircrew, many of which were composed of two squadrons that could not be deployed at Seymour Johnson (333d and 334th Fighter Squadrons) and 391 Combat Squadron at Air Force Base Mountain, for a total of four aircrews per F-15E. In early March, personnel and 335 Fighter Squadron aircraft joined 336 in Al Udeid. One of the goals was the destruction of Iraqi air defenses and the Early Warning radar network near the border with Jordan, allowing F-16 and Special Forces helicopters to operate from Jordan at the start of the war. Some radar sites and radio relay stations were struck in western Iraq near the "H3" airfield, during these coalition jet missions meeting with heavy anti-aircraft fire.

On March 19, when the F-117 Nighthawks dropped a bomb in Baghdad, targeted a house where Saddam Hussein was believed to be; F-15Es dropped GBU-28 around the H3 airfield. On March 20, when the war was effective, the F-15Es fired the AGM-130 against key communications, command and control buildings, and other major targets in Baghdad; some weapons miss the intended target, possibly due to the EA-6B Prowlers jamming operation in the vicinity.

On April 3, 2003, an F-15E pilot thought that the M270 Multiple Launcher Launcher System (MLRS) for Iraq's surface-to-surface missile site dropped a 500-pound (230 kg) laser-guided bomb, killing three and injuring five others. On April 7, 2003, an F-15E (88-1694), headed by Captain Eric Das and Major William Watkins, held a critical detention mission to support the special forces. Das and Watkins fell while bombing a target around Tikrit likely to be shot down by a AAA shot. The crew was posthumously awarded the Distinguished and Purple Heart Flyers for their actions.

During the war, the F-15E was credited with destroying 60% of the total force of the Iraqi Republic of Medina Guard. They also scored hits at 65 MiG on the ground, and destroyed the main defense and command buildings in Baghdad. During the war the F-15Es worked with other jets deployed to Al Udeid, including RAAF F/A-18, USAF F-16 and F-117s, RAF Panavia Tornado fighter and US Navy F-14 detachment from VF-154.

Odyssey Dawn Operation

Following the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1973 on March 17, 2011, 18 USAF F-15E fighter planes, and various NATO and other allied aircraft deployed to enforce Libya's no-fly zone as part of Operation Odyssey Dawn. On March 21, 2011, F-15E Strike Eagle, Tail # 91-304, from FS 492d crashed near Bengazi, Libya. Both crew members were deployed to a territory controlled by elements of Libyan resistance and ultimately rescued by US Marines. Equipment problems cause severe imbalances and contribute to accidents when leaving the target area.

Operation against the Islamic State (2014-present)

The F-15Es are used by the US in the Inherent Settlement Operation against Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria. On the morning of September 23, 2014, the Strike Eagles and other American and Arabian Gulf aircraft carried out attacks in Syria against ISIS fighters, training compounds, headquarters and command and control facilities, storage facilities, financial centers, supply trucks and armed vehicles. The Pentagon has released target videos hit by shots propagated from F-15Es, taken by their own AN/AAQ-33 snipers. From the start of the OIR in August 2014 to January 2015, the F-15Es flew 37 percent of the Air Force sorti.

USAF F-15Es departing from RAF Lakenheath in the UK conducted a number of remote attacks in Libya against leading figures and selected Islamic camps. On November 12, 2015, a pair of F-15Es killing Abu Nabil al-Anbari, reported Iraqi Islamic State leader and Levant in Libya in a raid near Darnah in East Libya.

On February 20, 2016, the USAF F-15E hit an ISIL training camp near Sabratha where foreign fighters are headquartered. The air strike reportedly killed ISIL Tunisian operator Noureddine Chouchane, a 36-year-old jihadist who was linked to Sousse's 2015 attack. Local sources said that 49 people were killed and 6 injured. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia, among those killed were two Serbs who had been kidnapped by the ISIL at the end of 2015.

On June 8, 2017, an F-15E shot down a pro-Syrian UAV Regime near Al Tanf, Syria. In a statement issued by Operation Inherent Resolve officials, it was stated that the drone was shot down after "dropping one of the few weapons it carried near the position occupied by Coalition personnel". The statement further described the unmanned aircraft as "the same size as the US Predator MQ-1". This prompted speculation that the crashed drone was Shahed 129. On June 20, 2017, the second Shahed-129 UCAV was shot down by the F-15E as it approached the 50-mile exclusion zone around Al-Tanf.

Israel

The F-15I is operated by the Israeli Defense Force/Air Force No. 69 Squadron, which previously operated the F-4 Phantom II. The F-15I is the strategic bomber of the Israeli Air Force because of its long range, high capacity ammunition and sophisticated systems.

After the 1991 Gulf War, in which Israeli cities were attacked by Iraq-based SCUD missiles, the Israeli government decided that long-range combat aircraft were required and issued a Request for Information (RFI). In response, Lockheed Martin offers the F-16 Fighting Falcon version, while McDonnell Douglas offers the F/A-18 Hornet and F-15E. On January 27, 1994, the Israeli government announced their intention to purchase 21 modified F-15E, designated F-15I. On May 12, 1994, the US Government authorized the purchase of up to 25 F-15Is by Israel. In November 1995, Israel ordered four additional F-15Is, so 25 were built from 1996 to 1998. Some air-to-air missiles could carry: AIM-9L, Rafael Python 4 and Rafael Python 5 infrared-homing missiles; and AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-120 AMRAAM radar-guided missiles. In 1999, Israel announced its intention to get more fighter aircraft, and the F-15I was a potential competitor. However, it was announced that the contract would go to the F-16I.

The first F-15I fighter mission was flown in Lebanon on January 11, 1999. Four F-15I fighters bombed and destroyed the Syrian nuclear reactor in 2007 (Out of Box Operation).

Saudi Arabia

In November 2009, the Saudi Royal Air Force (RSAF) F-15, together with Saudi Tornados, carried out an air strike during the Houthi uprising in northern Yemen. This is the RSAF's first military action over hostile territory since the Desert Storm Operation in 1991.

Saudi Arabia requested 84 F-15SA (Saudi Advanced) aircraft, upgraded its F-15S fleet to F-15SA standards, and related equipment and weapons through Foreign Military Sales in October 2010. On December 29, 2011, the US signed a $ 29.4 billion contract to sell 84 F-15s in SA (Saudi Advanced) configuration. Sales include upgrades for older F-15S to SA standards and related equipment and services. Foreign Military Sales Contract for 68 F-15S to F-15SA modification kit is placed with Boeing in June 2012. The first flight of the newly-built F-15SA takes place on February 20, 2013. Saudi Arabia led the intervention in Yemen (2015-present) range>

The Saudi F-15S aircraft along with other Arab coalition assets began attacking targets in Yemen as part of a Saudi-led intervention in Yemen, called Operasi Hurricane Determination, beginning on March 26, 2015. Against a joint force of former Houthi and Yemen rebels Army troops, strikes, at least on opening days are filled with ineffective anti-aircraft fire reported only cause damage when it falls to the ground. The initial strike was aimed at targets such as air defense sites, Military Headquarters, military airports, ballistic missile depots, and launchers. During the opening attack on March 26, 2015, a Saudi F-15S crashed into the Gulf of Aden after swirling over the sea; two pilots were thrown safely and found from the sea by a HF-60G USAF rescue helicopter. Arab coalition reports said enemy fire did not cause the crash, while Houthi and Iranian sources said they shot down. On January 8, 2018, it was reported that the RSAF F-15S was shot down by a surface-to-air Houthi missile. A video released by Houthi shows the F-15 improves speed and releases decoy bait before being attacked by projectiles and seems to be suffering major damage. On January 9, 2017, Houthi media, Al-Masirah, announced that the F-15 had been damaged but did not crash. On March 21, 2018, Houthi rebels released a video in which they hit and possibly shot down the Saudi F-15 in Saada province. In the video, R-27 air into the air that was adapted for use from surface to air was launched to the target in the sky in an explosion. As in the video of a previous similar hit recorded on January 8th, the target, while clearly hitting, does not seem to fall into the sky when the video stops. Saudi forces confirmed the attack, saying the jet was safely landing at the Saudi base. Saudi official sources confirmed the incident reported that it happened at 3:48 am local time after ground defense missiles were launched on fighter jets from inside Saada airport.

McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle - Simple English Wikipedia ...

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Variant

F-15E

Two-seat all-long-range attack and ground attack aircraft for USAF. A total of 236 were built from 1985 to 2001.

F-15I

The F-15I is operated by the Israeli Air Force where it is known as Ra'am (??? - "Guntur"). This is a ground attack aircraft with two stands powered by two Pratt & amp; Whitney F100-PW-229 engine, and is based on the F-15E.

F-15I Ra'am is similar to F-15E, but it displays several different avionics systems to meet Israeli requirements. To facilitate the strike at night, the F-15Is originally fitted with Sharpshooter targeting designed for Israel F-16s. Pod Sharpshooter is less capable than the LANTIRN pod used on USAF F-15Es; Israel then bought 30 LANTIRNs. The F-15Is originally had no Radar Warning Receiver, Israel installed its own electronic warfare equipment, Elisra SPS-2110, as well as a new central computer and embedded GPS/INS system. All sensors can be shifted to visibility mounted in Display and Vision Helmet (DASH), which provides both crew members with targeting tools not owned by the F-15E. F-15I uses APG-70I radar; Its terrain mapping ability can find unrecognized targets when in bad weather conditions. Radar can detect large-sized targets of planes at 150 nautical miles (170 miles, 280 km), and fighter-sized targets at 56 nmi (64 miles, 104 km), has a resolution minus one-third below the standard 70-APF USAF. In January 2016, Israel approved an increase in the F-15I fleet that included structural changes, AESA radar, renewed avionics, and an unspecified (unspecified) weapon system.

F-15K

The F-15K Slam Eagle (Korean: F-15K ???) is a derivative of the F-15E, operated by the Republic of Korea Air Force. Some of the key components are outsourced to South Korean companies under an offset agreement, in which South Korea is responsible for 40% of production and 25% assembly. Aircraft and wings are provided by Korea Aerospace Industries, aviation controller actuator by Hanwha Corporation, electronic jammer and radar warning receiver by Samsung Thales, head-up display, air communications system and radar by LIG Nex1, and engine by Samsung Techwin under license before final assembly at St. Louis Boeing.

In 2002, ROKAF selected F-15K for the F-X combat program, where F-15K, Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon and Sukhoi Su-35 were evaluated. A total of 40 aircraft were ordered, deliveries began in 2005. On April 25, 2008, the second batch of 21 F-15Ks was ordered, worth 2.3 trillion Korean won (US $ 2.3 billion). This second batch is different from the first batch plane that has Pratt & amp; Whitney F100-PW-229 (EEP) engine, a license manufactured by Samsung Techwin, to match the KF-16 fleet. ROKAF has received 50 F-15K in June 2011. ROKAF expects F-15K to operate until 2060.

The F-15K variant features several features not commonly found in F-15Es, such as AAS-42 Infra-red search and track, a Tactical Electronics Warfare Suite tailored to reduce weight and increase jamming effectiveness, cockpit compatibility with night vision devices, Radio ARC-232 U/VHF with Fighter Data Link system, and advanced APG-63 (V) 1 radar scanning radar. APG-63 (V) 1 radar has a common digital processing equipment with APG-63 (V) 3 AESA radar, and thus can be upgraded to AESA radar via antenna replacement. The F-15K is equipped with a Joint Helmet Worm System and weapons such as AGM-84K SLAM-ER, AGM-84H Harpoon Block II, KEPD 350.

F-15S

The F-15S was a variant of the F-15E supplied to the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) in the 1990s. Saudi Arabia earlier attempted to buy up to 24 F-15Fs, the proposed single-seat variant, but was blocked by the US Congress. The F-15S, originally referred to as the F-15XP, is almost identical to the USAF F-15E, the only major difference in the AN/APG-70 radar performance in synthetic aperture mode. 72 was built from 1996 to 1998. In October 2007, GE announced a US $ 300 million contract with Saudi Arabia for 65 GE F110-GE-129C engines for the F-15S.

F-15SG

The F-15SG (formerly F-15T) is a variant of the F-15E, ordered by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) after a seven-year evaluation period involving five other combat aircraft under consideration. The F-15SG was chosen on 6 September 2005 on Dassault Rafale, the only other aircraft left in the fight. Orders for 12 F-15SG fighters were placed in December 2005. The appointment of the F-15F was also provided for RSAF.

On August 22, 2005, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) informed the US Congress of the possibility of Overseas Army Sales (FMS) weapons, logistics and training in the event that Boeing F-15 was selected by Singapore. Package options include AIM-120C and AIM-9X missiles; GBU-38 JDAM and AGM-154 JSOW weapons from air to ground, Night Vision Goggles and Link 16 terminals. Two engines of General Electric F110, with 29,400 lbf (131 kN) thrust each, supply the F-15SG.

The Ministry of Defense of Singapore (MINDEF) on October 22, 2007, exercised the option to purchase eight F-15SG fighter aircraft that were part of the original contract. Along with this purchase, additional orders of four F-15SGs increased the total order to 24 fighter aircraft. The first F-15SG was launched on 3 November 2008. F-15SG shipments commenced in 2009 and all 24 were declared operational ready by September 2013. Media reports in March 2013 suggested Singapore could buy more F-15SG.

F-15 Advanced Eagle

The F-15 Advanced Eagle variant is an upgrade from the previous model as it has two additional underwing weapons pegs (increasing the number from nine to 11); large cockpit view area options; fly-by-wire control; radar AN-APG-82 (V) 1 raytheon AN/APG-63 (V) 3 active electronically scanned (AESA); General Electric General Electric F110-129 engine; Cueing-mounted Cueing digital systems shared in both cockpits; and digital electronic warfare systems among other enhancements. In a typical escort configuration, the Sophisticated Eagle can carry 16 AIM-120 AMRAAMs; four AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range missiles; and two AGM-88 HARMs. For precision strikes can carry 16 Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs); four AMRAAMs; one 2,000 lb Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM); two HARM; and two fuel tanks.

F-15SA

F-15SA (Saudi Advanced) is a new version for RSAF. The F-15SA has a modern fly-by-wire flight control system in place of a hybrid electronic/mechanical system used by all previous F-15s. This variant includes APG-63 (v) 3 radar scanned electronically active (AESA), digital electronic warfare system (DEWS), infrared search and infrared (IRST) systems, and other advanced systems. This also includes a redesigned cockpit originally intended for the F-15SE. The fly-by-wire system will allow the transport of weapons in previously unused outer wing weapons stations.

F-15QA

F-15Q (Qatar Advanced) is a variant developed for the Qatar Air Force. It was announced in November 2016 that the US State Department has approved the sale of up to 72 F-15QA aircraft to Qatar in a $ 21.1 billion deal that includes weapons, support, equipment and training. On June 14, 2017, it was announced that Qatar had signed an agreement to buy 36 F-15QA at a cost of US $ 12 billion.

Proposed variant

The F-15H Strike Eagle (H for Hellas) is an export version of the proposed F-15E 1990 for Greece, chosen by the Greek Defense Ministry and Greek Air Force, but the government chose F-16 and Mirage 2000- 5s instead.

F-15G Wild Weasel is a proposed two-seat version to replace the F-4G Wild Weasel in the role of Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD). The F-15G was studied in 1986. A proposed modification to the F-15Cs for the SEAD role was studied in 1994-95, but the F-16Cs were modified to perform this role instead. The F-15Es are capable of carrying ARMs such as AGM-88 HARM and performing the role of SEAD.

F-15SE Silent Eagle is a proposed variant with fifth-generation combat features, such as internal trains and radar absorbent materials. The Silent Eagle features a conformal weapon bay (CWB) for holding internal weapons instead of conformal fuel tanks, twin vertical tails that tilt out 15 degrees to reduce radar cross sections; the majority of the CWB area is for weapons storage, a minority used for fuel storage. The F-15SE is optimized for air-to-air missions, lacking all-aspect stealth features for missions within areas covered by ground-based anti-aircraft systems. The first production of F-15E, s/n "86-0183", was modified to become a Silent Eagle demonstrator. The aircraft first flew in July 2010 with a left-sided combat weapon, and successfully launched the AMRAAM missile from CWB in July 2010. Prospective customers are Saudi Arabia, Israel, Japan and South Korea; but the Saudis voted for the F-15SA, while Israel, Japan and South Korea voted for the F-35.

Boeing offers 90 F-15GA (German Advanced) fighters to Germany as Tornado IDS and ECR replacement.

90-0261 | McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle | United States ...

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Operator

Israel

Israeli Air Force - 25 F-15I aircraft used as of January 2014

South Korea

Senin, 25 Juni 2018