The F-15A Eagle, developed as an air superiority fighter, was first flown on July 27, 1972, at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. The USAF received 10 YF-15A prototype aircraft for testing (Category I S/N 71-280 to 289), two TF-15A two-seat trainer aircraft -- later redesignated F-15B (S/N 72-290/291), and eight Category II YF-15As (S/N 72-0113 to 0120). Prototype testing went relatively smoothly; however, notable structural changes included a notched stabilator and raked wingtips for production aircraft.
In the mid-1970s the F-15 was adapted for use in the air-to-ground role. Capable of carrying about seven tons of bombs, it became potent strike aircraft.
The USAF ordered more than 350 A models for operational service. F-15s of various models are used by Israel, Japan and Saudi Arabia.
The National Museum of the United States Air Force has an F-15A on display in its Cold War Gallery.
Type
Number built/
converted
Remarks
F-15A
384
365 to USAF
F-15B
61
59 to USAF
F-15C
482
409 to USAF
F-15D
93
61 to USAF
F-15E
215*
Through FY96
Notes:
- 19 F-15A to Israel
- 10 YF-15As produced
- Two F-15B to Israel
- Two YF-15Bs produced
- One YF-15B became YF-15E
- 18 F-15C to Israel
- 55 F-15C to Saudi Arabia
- 13 F-15D to Israel
- 19 F-15D to Saudi Arabia
- 20 F-15DJ built in Japan
- 25 F-15I (F-15E) to Israel
- Two F-15J to Japan
- 72 F-15S to Saudi Arabia
TECHNICAL NOTES: Armament: One 20mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon, four AIM-7 Sparrow and four AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, plus 15,000 lbs. mixed ordnance carried externally Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-100 turbofans of 25,000 lbs. thrust each Maximum speed: Plus 1,600 mph (Mach 2.5) Range: 3,450 miles with external fuel tanks Service ceiling: 65,000 ft. Span: 42 ft. 9 3/4 in. Length: 63 ft. 9 in. Height: 18 ft. 5 1/2 in. Weight: 56,000 lbs. maximum Crew: One
