Boeing has demonstrated a prototype fighter

F-15SE "Silent Eagle
 

MOSCOW, March 21. (ARMS-TASS). The Boeing Company has demonstrated a prototype of the fighter-bomber F-15 Eagle, the design which uses technology fifth generation aircraft, including radar visibility reduces coating, conformal location of weapons systems, digital avionics, as well as V-shaped tail, reports Janes Defence Weekly. "
A key challenge Boeing in developing a new version of the aircraft, which received the designation F-15SE "Silent Eagle is the reduction of radar visibility fighter 4 th generation F-15 radar for enemy aircraft. In particular, to reduce the radar signature of the front F-15SE wing leading edges are covered with radio absorbing materials.
Changing tail stabilizers, which have been beveled at 15 degrees, like the tail assembly F/A-18 "Hornet" and the installation of conformal fuel tanks that can be converted into the internal weapons bays, are designed to reduce the level of reflected signals in the lateral projections.According to the developers, as a result of upgrading the level of stealth fighter in the frontal projection corresponds to any fifth-generation aircraft in a configuration approved by the U.S. government to sell abroad. Carried out improvements, according to Boeing, will not change the aerodynamic characteristics of the F-15SE.
The design of the internal compartments can accommodate two pairs of ammunition, providing the possibility of combining weapons systems for air-ground and air-to-air missiles, including a 2 SD AIM-120 AMRAAM and two 1,000-pound UAB Mk.83 JDAM or 4,500-pound Mk .82 JDAMS or 8 UAB SDB. Internal bomb racks are designed for suspension of ammunition weighing not more than 1000 pounds.
According to the developers, the use of conformal fuel tanks for ammunition will reduce the flight range of aircraft to 200 nautical miles. For example, when the external suspension kit weapons range of flight F-15 is 1000 nautical miles, while the range of the F-15SE, which has a similar set in the inner compartments - 800 nautical miles.
At the same time, developed by Boeing project that allows the use of F-15SE, and as a standard multi-purpose aircraft with a full payload version of the F-15E (conformal fuel tanks with internal weapons bays can be quickly dismantled after the landing). 
Another feature of version F-15SE is the installation of a specially designed system of electronic warfare. Boeing has chosen to equip the aircraft digital electronic warfare system (DEWS) of BAE Systems, which includes a digital receiver warning radar radiation, the digital transmitter interference, integrated system of traps and emission system suppression. According to Boeing, in the formulation of aircraft noise radar of the enemy, our own onboard radar and early warning system continues to function.
Like its predecessors, F-15SE has a maximum takeoff weight of 36,750 kg, including 13.39 tons maximum payload. Equipped with eight external nodes suspension missiles, air-to-air and 15 nodes for arms air-Turn ", a plane capable of carrying all the precision-guided munitions with satellite and laser-guided cruise missiles, including long-range SLAM-ER and Harpoon" block 2.The maximum amount of fuel, including conformal tanks and three mezhdubortnyh tank is 15.7 m.
The equipment F-15SE is also included radar with active electronically scanned AN/APG-63 (V) 3 and an integrated helmet-mounted target designation system JHMCS (Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System). 
Boeing launched the program to modernize the F-15SE, which was designated "Project Monty" in September 2008. As planned flight test a prototype within the framework of risk reduction will begin in the first quarter of 2010.
Boeing estimates the potential market for aircraft F-15SE in 190 cars. The first aircraft could be put foreign customers in 2012. Until 2012, the assembly line of Boeing in St. Louis (sht.Missuri) will continue to execute contracts for the supply of F-15, commissioned by Singapore and South Korea
Promising version is intended primarily for the international market. Boeing intends to offer F-15SE Air Force in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Israel and Saudi Arabia, which currently already operate F-15 aircraft. Boeing also hopes that interest in the purchase of new F-15SE raised an Air Force, which planned to buy fifth-generation fighter F-35 Lightning 2, but due to the significant increase in its value, which by some estimates could reach $ 200 million can not afford to purchase. According to the company, all designed within the framework of technology can be used for improvements consist in service F-15. According to preliminary estimates, the cost of F-15SE, including the supply of spare parts and training, could reach about 100 million dollars.

21.03.2009

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Birds of Prey from the banks of the Mississippi

Vladimir Ilyin, "Aviation and Time" № February 2004

In August 2003, the ruler of the International Aerospace Show MAKS-2003 in Zhukovsky, near the Russian fighter aircraft, brightly painted in the style of Latin American carnivals, there were ascetic that looked dark gray machine with almost imperceptible American stars. So Muscovites and guests of the Russian capital were able to personally meet with the aircraft F-15C and F-15E Eagle - one of the main "working tools" U.S. Air Force. Today, this family of cars, Americans do have a major role in the fight against enemy aircraft in the theater of military operations, they are involved in air defense system of the continental U.S., and stroke F-15E is the most powerful in the West, fighter-bombers.

For the purpose of the air

The first, very preliminary, the study image fourth-generation fighter started in the U.S. in 1962, when the most modern serial tactical aircraft the U.S. Air Force regarded Republic F-105 Thunderchief. These studies were purely exploratory in nature and not resulted in any specific program. In 1965, when the Vietnam War was still gaining momentum, the U.S. Air Force as part of the research program FX (Fighter Experimental) have begun a more detailed study of the possibility of creating a new generation of tactical fighter. FX aircraft intended to replace fighter jets air superiority F-4C, F-4D and F-4E, as well as the interceptor F-101B, F-102 and F-106.
In December 1965 the Air Force issued a preliminary tactical and technical requirements for FX, a next March the firm Boeing, Lockheed and North American received contracts on the formation of a promising fighter. According to the initial requirements, the machine was to have a velocity corresponding to M = 3, have a crew of one person and bring a powerful set of weapons, ensuring maintenance of air combat missile at high and medium ranges. Maneuvering characteristics of particular value not given. In essence, the new aircraft was conceived as a further development of the concept of heavy "generic" fighter F-111 with somewhat greater emphasis on problem solving of Defense. In those years, the U.S. felt very uncomfortable because of the threat posed by Soviet strategic bombers, fueled by talented hoaxes Moscow, in particular a spectacular demonstration in the air parade in Domodedovo in 1961, practically a "dead" supersonic M-50 and not yet "born" Tu-22K with a cruise missile Kh-22.
However, the experience of war but also Vietnam, where U.S. Air Force and Navy at the cost of 103 
the F-4 Phantom II, only 50 managed to shoot down North Vietnamese MiG-21 has shown that short-range air combat maneuver remains the main "action" in the struggle for supremacy in the air, even the most advanced for its time, medium-range missiles A I M 7 "Sparrow" provided no more than 20% wins, the remaining whipped "MiGs" were in the short-range missiles "Sidewinder" and guns. As a result, understanding of the Vietnamese experience in 1967, the requirements for FX were radically revised. Now the U.S. Air Force saw no prospect of a "utyugoobraznom" wagon, and highly maneuverable aircraft that could outperform in the melee of upgraded MiG-21 and retain the ability to conduct vserakursny rocket fight at medium ranges beyond visual contact with the target. Significant influence in shaping the concept of American fourth-generation fighter has had, and Moscow flypast 1967 at Domodedovo, organized almost immediately after the very sad for the Arabs "Six-Day War. Egyptian air force equipped with Soviet aircraft equipment (MiG-17 and MiG-21, IL-28 bombers and Tu-16), were completely defeated the Israelis, who had armed with French planes "Votur," Mr. "," Super "Mr." and Mirage »III, and although specialists, it was clear that the reasons for the military defeat of the Arabs lie not as had their equipment, but basic inability to fight in the Western media began to re-emerge a few almost forgotten since the end of 1930. image of the Soviet aircraft industry as a sort of "colossus with feet of clay" is not capable of producing anything comparable to the products of aircraft manufacturing firms "free world". In order to overcome this very nasty and economically harmful to the country's trend, and was intended to air a grand feast. However, today we can say that the organizers of his somewhat overdone. Instead of delicately hint that the Soviet military aircraft, in spite of Khrushchev's adventures are still there and able to meet the needs of the USSR's allies, the parade literally stunned the foreign military observers. The demonstration in the suburban sky last Soviet development (the existence of which the Pentagon if they had heard it did not take seriously considering "dezoy or thing of the distant future), showed that the West does not have a decisive qualitative superiority in the field of military aviation.
As a result of this unpleasant discovery, the U.S. Congress were held closed hearings on the topic: What can oppose the U.S. Air Force planes in such a potential adversary, as the Su-15, Tu-22K. Tu-128, Su-17, MiG-23 and MiG-25. It is these machines were named by U.S. experts as a major threat. The outcome of the hearings have been very disappointing for the military leadership. All this has spurred the Pentagon to force the papers to create a new generation of fighter aircraft, capable of effectively confront the growing "Soviet threat". Such "prishporivanie" American aviation industry was not in the interests of the USSR: as history shows, the United States were able to mobilize its vast scientific and technological potential. High maneuvering capabilities FX can be achieved only by increasing the take-off thrust-weight ratio up to 1,0-1,1 while maintaining a relatively low specific load on the wing. The maximum speed should correspond to M> 2. In combination with the need to equip the aircraft a powerful radar that provides an opportunity vserakursny of medium-range missiles, as well as with a range of no less than "Phantom", all this leads to an inevitable increase in the take-off weight of the new fighter to 17-19 tonnes, almost twice that of the MiG-21. This aircraft received only twin-engined. And although the two engines were more expensive one, but with greater operational survivability group consisting of a twin-engine machines. was supposed to last longer and ultimately do more cheaply.
The new requirements were sent to leading aircraft companies. Total in 1966-68 years. Air Force and industry reviewed more than 500 variants of the aircraft F -X. In the finals came Fairchild's Niller, North American and McDonnell Douglas. "Ferchayl Hiller presented a draft fighter with swept wings and two underwing nacelles, which carries the horizontal tail. The main motive, podvigshim designers the choice of this layout was to raznesgi engines as far as possible from the fuselage to prevent it from affecting the operation of intakes - in memory was still fresh problems with the air intakes of the F-111. closely appressed to the fuselage. In addition, such a solution possible to avoid falling into the engine propellant gases during firing of the gun. Among the other advantages of placing engines at a great distance from each other by military singled out increased combat survivability of the aircraft (the experience of "Phantom" Vietnam has shown that this machine is equipped with two adjacent TRDF, had combat survivability, practically equal to the corresponding indicator of single engine F-105 ). However, this arrangement also had its drawbacks: the deterioration of the review back, the violation of the flow in the area of the wing pods, but the main thing - the problem with handling in case of failure of one engine.
The special feature of the project company's North American "has become an integral arrangement of wing-body, which implemented an integrated approach to internal and external aerodynamics. Since the combat use of aircraft provided for in the FX range M = 0.8 - 2.5, the firm developed the original wing with a curved front edge, which has improved characteristics as in transonic and supersonic, and at subsonic speeds.
Were integral and air intakes in the design of which the firm has invested vast experience gained in a bomber XB-70 Valkyrie. From the viewpoint of the aerodynamics project as a whole represents a significant step forward. However, in the contest, failed in December 1969, first won the project by McDonnell Douglas, which proposed aircraft aerodynamic design which is nearly the same as the MiG-25. You can with enough confidence to say that the choices made by the U.S. Air Force, and was just due to this similarity: MiG-25 had already demonstrated its high performance, which was officially supported by a series of world records. Given the shortage of time and money the Pentagon decided not to risk and benefit from the activities of Soviet designers. In addition, choosing "McDonnell Douglas, the leadership of the U.S. Air Force took into account the vast experience this company on the establishment and improvement of" Phantom. " Played a role as formal and informal links with the Air Force leadership by senior management of this company, which develops jet aircraft for the U.S. Air Force and Navy in 1946, summarizing the competition, leading U.S. aviation analyst Boris N. Bellis (BNBellis) wrote in 1970: "F-15 aircraft came not on the spur of the moment (of course, if you do not take into account, the shock of the Moscow parade 1967 - Comm.'s). The decision was taken it is not in a hurry, and the contract was not only to the Air Force had to armed with the new fighter. "
Requirements for radar complex new fighter included the ability to detect targets at all altitudes on the background of the earth's surface (such a possibility in the United States was first implemented on the radar AN/APQ-130 Mk.2 fighter-bomber F-111F, and the Soviet Union - at the station "Sapphire -23 "MiG-23M). Originally intended for FX to create a radar with a phased antenna array (PAR), but later it was concluded that to develop such a station within a reasonable time is impossible, and introduction of PAR has been postponed "until later". One of the main requirements for the new radar was increased almost one order of magnitude compared with the station AN/APQ-120 fighter F-4 reliability. Among the developers of radar is also a contest, but the results of which was chosen as a pulse-Doppler radar with a slotted array antenna, proposed by Hughes.
The choice of engine is also passed on a competitive basis. The main contenders were the General Electric Company and Pratt & Whitney is a 1970 and got the victory. At a dry weight of 1375 kg turbofan engine F100-PW-100 developing maximum thrust 6,660 kg and 10,600 CCC - afterburner. Among its key features include placement of the auxiliary units directly on the motor housing, which simplifies installation and replacement of the power plant, and also provides the interchangeability of right and left engines.
In the years 1966-74. were working on creating effective for FX cannon armament. The program HIPAG firms on a competitive basis, "Philco Ford and General Electric developed a 25-millimeter cannon GAU-7 / A, made by the scheme and uses Gatling bezgilzovye ammunition.However, the developers failed to overcome the technical difficulties encountered when creating a new artillery system. As a result, it was decided to equip the aircraft improved version of 20-mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon "with a rate of fire, increased to 7200 rounds per minute, and more effective missiles. But this option has remained unfulfilled. The possibility of installing 30-millimeter gun high power GAU-8 / A, produced for the A-10 attack aircraft. However, this weapon proved too heavy for a fighter. Nothing ended, and motility studies in the vertical plane of the installation with the gun "Vulcan". As a result, all modifications of the aircraft survived the "classical" IBS used more in the second generation of jet fighters-F-104, F-105, F-4E, etc.
In December 19b9g. "McDonnell Douglas has received a contract worth USD 1,146.4 million for design and construction of 20 experienced fighters who have received military designation F-15 and its own name Eagle (Eagle), to create a fighter under the leadership of D. Graff. In the design process in an unprecedented large-scale use computer equipment as a result of a new car managed to create in a relatively short time, but a prudent conservatism of technical solutions and moderation requirements of the customer, curb their ambition of "above all, the furthest, fastest, possible to avoid serious technical problems.

June 26, 1972 has finished building the first prototype YF-15. and 27 July-corporate test pilot I. Barrows was first picked up this car in the air.

In the Soviet Union closely followed the FX program collected and analyzed all available information, trying to separate from her nuggets of truth. And if on the formation of F-15 had a huge impact MiG -25, then the American car the most direct impact on the course of designing the Su-27. Recall: Soviet designers task was to surpass the F-15 is in all respects by 10%.Colleagues Sukhoi seriously worried that a victory in the competition will win FX project "North America" ​​with an integrated layout. But when it was announced that I won, "McDonnell Douglas," suhovtsy "breathed a sigh of relief: the layout, embedded in the Su-27, looked much more promising. True, there were fears that the Americans through the open seal slipped my overseas colleagues "misinformation", and made themselves a very different plane. However, after the official demonstration in 1972, a prototype of the "Igla" these fears are dispelled: it became clear that the experts "McDonnell Douglas went on the most simple and cheap, but not the most promising path. As head of the department recalled projects Sukhoi OS Samoilovich, after takeoff, YF-15 Head TsAGI GP Svischsv PO Sukhoi said: "Paul Osipovich" Our backlog has turned to our advantage. The plane took off, and we know what he is. "
Tests of the "Igla" passed without any complications. Deliveries of the first pre-production F-15A (single-seat fighters) and the F-15B (double combat training aircraft, fully preserved onboard systems and armament of one-machine), designed for military trials began in September 1974 Two years later, almost simultaneously with the beginning supply the Soviet Air Force MiG-23ML U.S. Air Force began receiving the F-15. Worth one "Eagle" 12.5 million USD, which was quite a lot of the time.
By the time have already been developed and agreed with the Air Force basic directions of further development of the aircraft. Thus, a modernized version of the F-15C and its double analogue of the F-15D had to get new weapons in the first place - intermediate-range AIM-120 AMRAAM active radar homing on the target trajectory and the inertial guidance with updating on marching site. Maximum range of fire new missiles had to be 50 km.

F-15C / D appeared in 1979 He had a sophisticated avionics, enhanced design of air intakes and other airframe components, as well as increased capacity of internal fuel tanks and the presence of attachment of suspended nesbrasyvaemyh conformal tanks. At the same time, work on the AIM-120 was delayed, and the F-15C / D started to be equipped with new missiles only in the spring of 1991 And before that, based weapon fighters were upgraded with SD semi-active radar homing system, AIM-7M «Sparrow, capable of hitting aerial targets na distance of 45 km.
On conformal tanks should be more detail. Requirements to increase the flight range have always been one of the first places in the modernization of military aircraft systems. Therefore, in the first half of 1970. "McDonnell Douglas started to develop for the F-15 quick-hanging containers conformal FAST PACK (Fuel and Sensor Tactical PACK). Two containers (in total - to 4,265 kg of fuel), which had a length 9.90 m, maximum height of 0.92 m and a width of 0.61 m, were attached to the fuselage sides under the wing. According to estimates, their use increased the combat radius of the fighter by 71% - up to 2100 km. In this case, the estimated Ferry range as high as 6300 km.
FAST PACK containers were semi-monocoque structure of aluminum alloys. As conceived by the creators of these unusual aggregates, they were to significantly expand the range of combat tasks solved by the F-15. In particular, the holders along the container, could hang six bombs type Mk.82 (caliber 450 kg). In addition, The possibility of placement in the anterior compartment of one of the containers of different intelligence or navigational equipment and systems, electronic countermeasures (ECM). They could be both water-alcohol solution for cooling the air entering the compressor motor, the use of which provides short-term increase thrust turbofan, as well as support LRE AR2-3A (2x2700 kg). As stated, the inclusion of these engines allow the F-15 supersonic run "shot" at an altitude of 23 km.
Creating containers (from initial design to start flight tests), took only 139 days: July 27, 1979, equipped with their plane took its first Poleg, a month later, an experienced F-15 with containers FAST PACK made a nonstop flight to England on the Air Show in Farnborough , covering 4800 km in 4 hours, 59 minutes (the fighter take-off weight was 30,200 kg). During the flight tests with containers F-15 reached a speed corresponding to M = 2, and performed maneuvers with an overload equal to 5g. At the same time handling the fighter, according to representatives of the U.S. Air Force, "has not changed much." However, judging from the available information from the author, containers FAST PACK found limited use in aircraft F-15C / D - obviously affected the deterioration of characteristics of a fighter equipped with supersonic flight regimes. Normally they only began to establish multi-role fighters F-15E. 
Remained unfulfilled reconnaissance and missile packaging options FAST PACK.
 

Hunter companions

In 1976, under the influence of Soviet advances in counterspace, the U.S. began work on the system ASAT, which included F-15C fighter jet as a first stage booster rocket, and ASM-135.The main purpose of the new system was supposed to be fighting with the Soviet satellite radio technology and radar reconnaissance, flying at relatively low orbits. ASM-135 missile length 5.18 m and a launch weight of 1,180 kg was itself a three, and the third stage (weight 15.4 kg, length 460 mm, diameter 300 mm) is a proprietary device-antisputnikom with an infrared homing system and a fragmentation warhead . F-15C included in the complex ASAT, not
had a special guidance system and aiming for space objects, his task is only a delivery missile antisputnika at a specified time at a pre-calculated point in space and its start when the "roller coaster". In the future missile flew a ballistic trajectory and could intercept targets at altitudes of space up to 800 km. In general, the ASAT program was quite difficult. For technical reasons, primarily, with the most problematic third stage and infrared guidance system, its implementation was delayed for 18 months. January 21, 1984 at the Pacific missile testing ground hosted the first of 12 planned test launches ASM-135, in which a rocket carrying a mock machine-interceptor, the first real interception of a space object was executed Sept. 13, 1985, the target was the Air Force research satellite U.S. R78-1, is in a circular polar orbit with an inclination of 97,7 ° and a height of about 450 km. Start antisputnika with F-15 pilot was executed in standalone mode, which is considered as full-time in combat use. When approaching the area of ​​start-up aircraft flying on the teams-director of the system at an altitude of 11,890 m at a speed which corresponded to M = 0,85. After logging in to the limits of 13-kilomegrovoy zone with coordinates defined for start, onboard computer fighter has issued a command to drop to an altitude of 9000 m, and then calculated the point started maneuver, after the passage of which
plane was dispersed to the number of M = 1.22. Then, the pilot executed a hill with an angle of trajectory inclination 60-65 ° overload 3,5 g. Start antisputnika was carried out at an altitude of 11,580 m at which corresponded to M = 1.0. Interceptor hit the target with a direct hit. By 1987, it was planned to deploy two antispushikovye Squadron F-l5C at airstrips Langley (Virginia) and McCord (pcs Washington, and to equip them to purchase 112 ASM-135. However, since 1986, ASAT program has been gradually phased out. 
The reason was the "peacefulness" of the U.S. Congress to ban the test-firing of a real space targets (in the last several launches homing system tselilas one of the brightest stars). As a result, fully bring systems up to operational readiness was not possible. Impact and significant tactical limitations of the complex as a whole. Thus, the required pre-(a few hours before take-off aircraft carrier) programming to the machine-interceptor could at precisely defined times to reach a given point of space. Maximum height of target interception was also found to be insufficient (studied variants of its increase, but the creation of a new first stage entailed unacceptable to the Department of Defense expenditures).
In autumn 1986 it was decided to reduce the number of missiles procured ASM-135 to 36, and the deployment of antispugnikovyh squadrons altogether abandoned. Complex ASAT never entered service. It should be noted that the Soviet Union in late 1980. also completely stopped trials of its much more effective (and expensive) anti-space weapons.
 

The first multi-

Contrary to the publicity photographs and colorful pictures 20-year-old her, depicts the "Eagle" hung with clusters of bombs and missiles of various types, in fact, F-15A and F-15C only occasionally equip shock weapons, and pilots with whom ever talk to the author of these lines, not even practiced attack ground targets. "Eagle" was once a pure fighter air combat, and his limited arsenal of missiles air-to-air missiles. However, in late 1970. U.S. Air Force faced the need to find replace aging fighter-bomber F-111 - its primary tactical strike aircraft. This task was not easy. F-1I1 possessed some unique properties, including long range (at extremely low altitudes - up to 1400 km, ferry - 4700 km) in combination with a very respectable bomb load, as well as the ability to perform high-speed low-altitude shot in automatic mode following the terrain, the ability to search and attack small ground targets in complex weather conditions around the clock.

"McDonnell Douglas on its own initiative began to study the effectiveness of the F-15 during operations against ground targets as far back as 1976 specialists of the company came to the conclusion that the" Eagle "has a good chance for a relatively easy transformation into a fighter-bomber. The project, informally called the "Strike Eagle", was submitted to the contest announced by the Air Force, whose goal is the selection of a tactical attack aircraft ETF (Enhanced Tactical Fighter). Moreover, this machine should create based on existing designs. In addition to the modified F-15. BBC experts on the court were presented to projects based on aircraft "General Dynamics» F-16 and F-111. "Fairchild Ripablik" A-10. "Vout" A-7, "McDonnell Dutlas» F-4 and F/A-18, «Grumman» F-14 and A-6, as well as the European fighter-bomber Tornado.
In 1980, the ETF program has been suspended. This is explained mainly by financial considerations. However, we can assume that a role was played and started in those years, enthusiasm for leadership the U.S. Air Force stealth. In spite of this, "McDonnell Dutlas" for their own means of continued study of shock variant of "Igla" and 8 July 1980 began flight tests of experimental fighter F-15B AFCD (Advanced Fighter Capability Demonstrator). "Strike Eagle" was different from teaching martial F- 15B FAST PACK presence of containers and an advanced avionics, optimized for action against ground targets. The special feature of the new fighter was to be a radar with enhanced modes of operation, as well as thermal imaging equipment of new generation, giving the crew the opportunity to confidently drive a car at extremely low altitudes in all weather conditions, day and night, to find and identify small ground targets and apply for them various classes of weapons, including precision missiles and bombs with thermal homing, as well as using laser illumination purposes. The ultimate goal of the program was to create a multipurpose fighter capable of fighting with the same success as a land and air with chains.
In early 1982, after coming to power of Ronald Reagan administration sharply increased military spending, the U.S. Air Force decided to renew the program for an aircraft to replace the F-111.From November 1982 to April 1983 the Air Force conducted a comparative test flights of four F-15 (including the F-15 AFCD). as well as two prototypes, "General Dynamics» F-16XL Then the F-15 completed 216 flights, a F-16XL - 387 flights. According to their results on Feb. 24, 1984 Air Force announced the selection of the F-15 as a basis for creating multi-functional fighter F-15E.
The victory of McDonnell Douglas was due in particular topics. that future avionics aircraft has already been largely worked out within the "Strike Eagle". The transformation of an experienced F-15AFCD a full-fledged combat aircraft, according to the U.S. Air Force needed only 275 million USD, while the fine-tuning of F-16XL - 473 million USD. Moreover, the military is very skeptical of the possibility of establishing a single multi-functional fighter, and the double version of F-16XL needed additional funds.
The first of three pre-production F-15E flew on 11 December 1986 and the first production aircraft was delivered to the customer 29 December 1988 from the F-15D - the prototype - "Strike Eagle" differed significantly processed (60%), construction, linked with increased takeoff weight. Thanks to the use of new technology resource airframe also increased up to 16000 hours.A number of structural elements of the rear fuselage completed from a titanium alloy using svsrhplasticheskogo formation, which increased the volume of the engine compartment while maintaining the external contour of the aircraft. Thus, F-15E is compatible not only with native engine F100, but with more powerful and marker F110. Aircraft equipped with an entirely new three-channel wire system that provides the possibility to fly in the automatic mode following the terrain at a height of 30 m.
"Strike Eagle" became the first American aircraft, equipped with a low altitude container sighting and navigation system, LANTIRN (Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting InfraRed Night System). System is placed in two containers under vozduhozabornikmi aircraft. Aimed container weighing 245 kg contains forward looking thermal imaging system with a narrow angle, korellyator line of sight missiles and laser-designator dalyyumer. In the navigation container weighing 195 kg placed radar automatically follow the terrain, as well as thermal imaging system is forward looking with wide viewing angle. Video information on this equipment is displayed on the HUD, forming a kind of pilot to "window in the night", allows you to confidently fly a fighter jet at an altitude of about 60 m at any time regardless of weather conditions. Information on the impact of the module is displayed on one of the cabin screens.
Initially, the U.S. Air Force planned to buy 392 new aircraft, but later reduced the order of 200 units with the end of the financing of production in 1991, however, after the construction of this issue of Shock "needle" life continued: Air Force were interested in maintaining the assembly line at a factory in St. Louis in working condition. To make up for combat losses in Operation Desert Storm, as well as to compensate for the transfer of Saudi Arabia in 1990, 24 fighters F-15C / D, in 1991 and 1992 financial years the Air Force ordered an additional nine vehicles. Further orders continued to arrive by early 2002 it was released 236 units of F-15E, and 10 aircraft were under construction.
A lot of potential F-15E has allowed designers to "McDonnell Douglas and later Boeing consistently enhance the combat capabilities of fighter aircraft. In 1992, the U.S. Air Force began a program, designed for nine years, during which the aircraft was supposed to give the ability to fight the airborne opponent with a specialized missile AGM-88 HARM. The program is designed in two phases. In the first advanced onboard processor control arms and its software, which allowed the end of 1996 to equip aircraft missile HARM. In the second phase, completion scheduled for the current decade, is expected to install electronic surveillance and targeting systems that allow aircraft to carry out an autonomous search for "victims" for missile HARM.After completing the second phase of modernization F-15E will be able to fully solve the problems imposed earlier on the specialized confusional aircraft F-4G "Wild Weasley." Later in the armed F-15E is expected to include a modernized version of the missile HARM, which should hit the radar, even if they temporarily stopped work on radiation.
In early 1989, one F-15E pilot turbofan was installed by General Electric »F110-GK-129, forced up to 14,300 kgs. However, in the same year, after 23 flights (total duration - 67 h) test was stopped. Further work was done to modernize the F-15E air intakes in relation to the peculiarities of the engine F100-GE-129. In 1993, tests of the airplane with those turbofans have resumed, but again failed to yield the desired results. Currently, the U.S. Air Force apparently does not plan to equip the F-15E engines, company General Electric, while the action in this direction are continuing.
Constantly expanding the armed shock Igla. Since the late 1990's. work is underway to equip these planes, guided aerial bombs with JDAM-type inertial guidance, supplemented by a system of satellite correction. Various modifications of these munitions have a caliber of 225, 450 and 900 kg. These advantages include the application of the principle of "dumped, forgotten, unlike laser-guided bombs, which require illumination purposes. No restrictions on the maximum height of new weapons, as well as time of day and weather conditions. At the same time, accuracy of entry of such bombs is 10-15 m, which is slightly worse than the laser. In addition, JDAM can not hit moving targets, since the coordinates of targets are introduced into the bomb before it is reset (experiments radiocorrection JDAM from the aircraft carrier, ensuring the defeat of mobile targets, began only in 2002). During the flight test, held on 14 May 2001 at the landfill China Lake (California), was successfully carried out the bombings with a "needle" five bombs with an inertial-satellite-guided GBU-31 JDAM (900 kg), struck five different purposes. Bombing satisfied with the level flight at an altitude of 11,400 m at a speed corresponding to M = 0,8.
Another promising ammunition, which is planned to "register" on board the F-15E, is planning to cluster bomb-ridden AGM-154 JSOW, which is designed to defeat the purposes of which are at a distance of 65 km from the aircraft carrier. The cassette is a vehicle with the body length of about 4,1 m having a ribbed shape, which reduces radar visibility. The tape has a folding wing and tail assembly, formed by six aerodynamic surfaces. Warhead weighing 230-450 kg (depending on equipment), located in the center of mass, may include mines "Retor", for the formulation of Blast, unguided submunitions BLU-97 submunitions induced anti-BIX-108 or are planning high-precision anti-subbospripasy BAT with thermal-acoustic homing. To destroy ships or ground targets specially protected AGM-154 is supposed to equip monoblock warhead. In addition, the planning cassette can be used to deliver high accuracy (10 m) of supplies by land forces. Other "nontraditional" scope AGM-154 is the REB: ammunition may be fitted with miniature jammers, creating a "corridor" to break the aircraft into the combat formations of the enemy. Flight tests of the F-15E with AGM-154 began in 1994 at Langley Air Force Base.Theoretically, a fighter-bomber capable of carrying six of these cluster bombs, but now their number is limited to four.
In the near future arsenal "Strike Eagle" should fill the tactical cruise missile of a new generation of AGM-158 JASSM, preproduction which began in 2002, the U.S. Air Force plans to procure 2,400 weapons of this type. The rocket is made using stealth and equipped inertsialyyuy guidance system for the marching segment of the flight with the correction from the power of satellite navigation GPS. On a final site uses teplovizioinoe homing system of autonomous detection and target recognition.

Starting weight of missiles - 1024 kg, the maximum distance - 370 km, velocity corresponds to M = 0,7. The missile is equipped with high-explosive fragmentation or improved penetrating warhead.
In the longer term (about 2010-ies.) Aircraft can get and manage a new generation of bombs, which have reduced size and weight, which will greatly increase their number on board the F-15E.
Specialists of the company, Boeing suggested that the U.S. Air Force will operate the F-15E, at least until 2015-20-ies. Alerting him to address a steep combat missions, including anti-tactical ballistic missiles. Perhaps the use of F-15E and as a command and control aircraft, with fighter jets air superiority F/A-22A and multipurpose fighter F-16C.
In the aggregate properties combat F-15E, until recently, was a unique aircraft - the first production to truly multi-role fighters. The absence of direct competitors for a long time allowed him to gain a certain position in the global aviation market. However, unlike the F-16, purchased as a rule, relatively poor countries, the acquisition of multi-Igla could afford only the most affluent "customers." In the mid 1990's. export price of one F-15E was assessed more than 50 million USD.
The first foreign countries, drew attention to a new modification of "needle" was Israel, whose government in November 1993 decided to purchase 21 F-15E. The Israeli version of the aircraft received the designation F-15I (Israel). In general, it corresponds to the American prototype, but is equipped with Israeli-made ECM, and also bears the Israeli tactical cruise missiles, "Pop Eye" or "Pop Eye" 2 (the maximum range of start-up - 60-90 km).
Another export version of F-15S (Saudi Arabia) is intended for Saudi Arabia. Io contract signed in December 1992, were built 72 such cars. Combat capabilities of the F-15S somewhat reduced in comparison with American and Israeli versions. The fighter is equipped with radar AN/APG-63. are similar to those on fighter F-15C. Instead LANTIRN system used a more simple optoelectronic system "Sharntuter" which is set only 48 aircraft, optimized to attack ground targets. The remaining 24 fighter aircraft used in air defense system. Saudi Arabia is planning to procure 24 F-15S, negotiating the purchase of which are carried out from 2000
In the early 1990's. "McDonnell Douglas has offered the U.S. Air Force to purchase single version of the fighter F-15E, developed for export and were designated F-15F. However, the initiative was not supported by the Pentagon. April 19, 2002 signed a contract to supply the Republic of Korea Air Force 40 fighters F-15K. The aircraft is equipped with radar AN/APG-63 (V) 1 with the slotted array antenna having enhanced when working at ground targets. Radar complements infrared detection and tracking AN/AAS-42, as well as helmet-mounted sight indicator of firm Boeing. In addition, the fighter is equipped with an advanced warning system on the British radar irradiation AN/ALR-56C (V) 1, as well as a system of production of active electronic jamming AN/ALQ-135M. Information-control field is formed by seven cockpit multifunction liquid crystal display format of 152x152 mm. F-15K is the first production aircraft family, which have unit of General Electric »F110-GE-129. At the armed F-15K will be the most modern means of destruction, including the JDAM bombs and cruise missiles, SLAM-ER. The first F-15K aircraft will be delivered in 2005, and last - in 2008
According to one of the leaders of the program F-15 Rindouera M. (Mike Rindouer), technological improvements, used on the F-15K can be implemented and the modernization of the U.S. "needle". In particular, it is estimated that in 2008-2010. part F-15C / D will receive enhanced radar AN/APG-63 (V) 1. In accordance with existing plans, the end of this decade, F-15E fleet in the United States must be supplemented by the fifth generation multipurpose fighter aircraft Lockheed Martin »F/A-22A« Raptor. However, the latter has very little combat load (two guided aerial bombs GBU-32 JDAM-1000 weighing 225 kg in gruzootseke), and therefore replace F-15E combat formation in the U.S. Air Force can not. Apparently, this would require heavy tactical strike aircraft of a new type based on the fighter F/A-22, the study image which Lockheed Martin has since 2002
The most optimistic projections, it can be established until mid-next decade.

In addition to the U.S.. "Needles" released in Japan. Firm Mitsubishi has collected on American license with partial use of American parts has 155 fighter planes F-15J and 36 combat-capable F-15DJ. Pa, the same firm were collected and 10 planes F-15J, delivered from the U.S. in the form of sets of units.
 

With an eye to the future

"Needles" is actively used and continue to be used as flying laboratories. In 1982 at the F-15A flight test was experienced engine F100-DEEC from the perspective of digital control system.Was carried out 30 missions, which confirmed the possibility of such substitution, as well as improving several characteristics of the engine, in particular, almost doubled (from 7 to 4) decreased time-to "small gas" on "full afterburner. In the future backlog, resulting in the program, was used on the engine F100-PW-229.
In the years 1981-83 in the flight test center the U.S. Air Force at Edwards Air Force Base held more than 60 flights flying laboratory F-15, equipped with an integrated flight management system and fire IFFC. It included a hanging container "Atlis with opto-electronic equipment, providing target designation and aiming, as well as a computer, which stores algorithms for flight control and fire. It was also modify the software. Among the advantages of IFFC is the possibility of attack air and ground targets when flying on any that is feasible in terms of aerodynamics, angle of attack. The time required to attack and move away from goal, was approximately three times lower than that of the serial F-15. When action on the ground plane was able to stay away from the goal, covert air defenses near abroad. During these tests was to intercept air targets PQM-102, closer to that performed on a collision course by foreshortening of 130 ° at a speed of 1300 km / h, while the fighter and the target is maneuvering with the overload of 3g. The goal was to hit a 2-second burst (171 projectile was released). Developments on the program 1FFC found application in the construction of aircraft F/A-18C/D, F-15E. F-16C, etc.
In June 1983, at Edwards Air Force Base began testing the F-15 with an advanced digital flight management system FCS. Unlike the analog system that is installed on serial fighters, it was associated with a system control power plant, fire control and navigation. This provided a significant improvement in flight performance without costly upgrades airframe and powerplant. In the same year, in response to a request the U.S. Air Force to develop a version of 145 with a reduced by more than 50% of the length of run and run, "McDonnell Douglas submitted a draft experimental aircraft F-15STOL, in what the designation F-15S/MTD. On this machine is proposed to use canards (PGO), as well as flat nozzle with thrust vector control (UHT) in the vertical plane and the reverse. In F-15S/MTD converted first pilot combat training F-15D. As CHR have been used console stabilizer F/A-18, set with a cross «V» in the 20 ° and can vary both symmetrical and differentially. Firm Pratt Untni has developed a flat swivel nozzle made of titanium alloys with liquid cooling system, for which the airplane required to equip a special turbo-cooler. The prototype has a new digital-wire control system that combines the traditional executive authorities with the management of GTO, engine, rotary nozzles, nose wheel and main wheel brakes. A characteristic feature of F-15S/MTD become reconfigurable control system: the loss or denial of any executive control surfaces, as well as failure of one engine functions other controls are automatically redefined so as to save as much as possible, stability and controllability of the airplane. To increase the maximum allowable vertical speed contact with the ground have been strengthened landing gear. In combination with low-pressure tires are allowed to operate the machine with unpaved runways. as well as poorly repaired concrete strips. Aircraft equipped with an automatic and autonomous landing system, which provides a landing at the height of the bottom edge of the cloud cover of 60 m and 800 m line of sight Upgraded Radar AN/APG-70 a resolution of 5.2 m at a distance of 39 km and 2,6 m - 22 km. Refinement led to a significant increase in weight of the aircraft - just by installing it PGO potyazhelel to 1090 kg. According to initial plans, the first flight of an experimental machine was to be held in early 1988, however, Pratt Whitney, met with the development of new 
nozzles with a number of problems that delayed the beginning of several flight tests. F-15S/MTD without a system of UHT flew on 7 September 1988 with, as in the standard configuration - May 10, 1989 Tests for Edwards Air Force Base held until August 1991 and included 138 flights, in general, confirmed the efficiency of technological innovation. Thus, the rate of approach F-15S/MTD compared to F-15D has decreased from 260 to 222 km / h and flight range increased by 13%. Through the use of flat nozzles and PGO angular velocity of the roll has increased by 24%, and the pitch - at 27%. Demonstrated the possibility of landing on a dry strip of 425 m and 985 m long wet (for serial F-15C fighter requires 2300 m, wet bars). In the latest test flight on Aug. 12, 1991 planes have landed at night without using ground equipment only by airborne means. Technology, used to F-15S/MTD, are widely used in the fifth generation fighter F/A-22A «Raptor, as well as several other programs. In what was referred F-15S/MTD NASA, where he was assigned the registration number of the NASA 837/71 -0290. At the end of 1990. after appropriate conversion of the aircraft was involved in the program ACTIVE (Adanced Conlrol Technology for Integrated Vehicles), which, in addition to NASA, involved lab named Wright the U.S. Air Force, as well as the firm Boeing and Pratt leave, "Engines have a new, irreversible system SWT. Nozzle could deviate in any direction, providing control of the airplane as the pitch and yaw on, UHT intended both to improve takeoff and landing characteristics of the machine and to improve its maneuverability in the velocity range from extremely low to the corresponding M = 2,0. In addition, aircraft equipped povoy "highly intelligent" integrated management system.In 1999, the Program ACTIVE pilot F-15 completed 15 flights, and then was raised again for conservation. Currently, NASA has one more flying laboratory F-I5B (NASA836/74-0141).which is periodically used in various research programs.
February 20, 1992 the first flight of the upgraded fighter F-15B, on which firm McDonnell Douglas experienced a hardware system ICAAS (Integrated Control and Avionics for AirSuperioriti) allows you to coordinate the action level (four aircraft) in the battle against multiple air targets. The system should carry out in-flight collection of information on the observed order of all the fighter groups, process it and display the recommended tactical scheme of action, as well as provide automatic reallocation of aircraft management. In the front cockpit of the F-15B installed a new display system, which included multi-color cathode-ray lights with touch controls.The aircraft was equipped with two onboard computer firm Lear Astroniks. It should be noted that this is also coordinating the management, but more simple in execution of the system is implemented on the production of Su-27. However, due to budget cuts DoD funding for this program was soon discontinued, and flight testing stopped after four flights. "McDonnell Douglas on its own initiative for some time continued to stand modeling study of group actions of two F-15 equipped with a system ICAAS. Further results of these studies were partially relevant to other fighter programs, but the F-15 the ability to operate in automatic mode, group management and not purchased.
In 1993, based on Edwards took flight testing laboratory F-15 IIIDEC (Highly Integrated Digital Electronic Control), converted from the eighth prototype F-15A (mid. № 71-0208). The plane was equipped with a very unusual power-plant control system: it could change the traction motors so that the plane was able to turn around, go to climb or descend without the use of aerodynamic control surfaces. All this
allows the pilot to make a safe landing even in case of failure of the ailerons, rudders and differential stabilizer, which was worked out during the program.

Unrealized projects

In the early 1990's. "McDonnell Douglas," based on the F-15E drafted a more "advanced" multi-functional fighter F-15XX, in a design expected to be used stealth technology. In this case, the original glider plane was almost preserved, only slightly increased wingspan. In order to reduce radar visibility supposed to use semi-flush units external suspension arms, as well as radar absorbing coating the surface of the airframe and missiles. However, according to BBC, it was all due to the unacceptably high technical risk as a result of the project was rejected. Nevertheless, the firm continued to work in this direction on its own initiative, the result is a project of F-15MANX. Through the introduction of the latest digital-wire control system, as well as deviations of the thrust vector engines on this fighter scheduled to completely abandon the vertical fin, which contributed to further decline noticeably, but, like the F-15XX, draft F-15MANX also not been realized. In this regard, it should be noted that the U.S. military is generally very reluctant to consider proposals from industry that could potentially compete with their "sacred cows" - program F/A-22 and F-35.
In 1994, "McDonnell Douglas is also on its own initiative, has developed a new wing for the F-15E. It differed increased area, sweep on the leading edge was 50 °, while the trailing edge was "cut" for the horizontal tail like F/A-22. The maximum building height wing had risen to 457 mm.As a result, capacity cassette tanks increased by 2,570 kg of fuel. According to calculations, the range of the upgraded fighter while flying a mixed profile was supposed to increase from 1270 to 1670 km. The project, designated F-15U, was proposed for the competition perspective driving the fighter-bomber, announced by the Government of the United Arab Emirates. Other participants in this contest are: French firm Dassault, has offered Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets and Rafale, the Eurofighter consortium with its EF2000, the U.S. firm Iockheed Martin (F-16C / D Block 60) and Russian JSC "Sukhoi (Su-30MK and Su-37). Won by the French - has affected the traditional orientation of the Emirates Air Force to purchase equipment in France, but on a more distant prospect of the UAE have chosen F-16C / D Block 60.
In the future, the project F-15L was somewhat corrected and received the designation F-15U-H, a plane, it was decided to install a built version of the system L ANTIRN. His standard weapons in the shock option should have been for nine Freefall Mk.84 bombs caliber 900 kg or seven CRR laser-guided GBU-24. In the case of winning the competition in the UAE firm McDonnell Douglas, "very optimistic expected to receive an additional order for 100 aircraft F-15U from the U.S. Air Force but it caused no visible reaction from the Pentagon, and the project" went on the shelf. "
F-15 and was considered as a promising aircraft to serve as SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defences) - suppression of enemy air defenses. Beginning in 1992, considered various options for equipping fighter F-15C with additional tools to identify enemy radar. Parallel program HARM Targeting Device (target designation system missile HARM) were of work on adaptation of anti-radar missiles AGM-88 HARM to the weapons control system F-15C. Later, both programs are combined into a single, designated MDSEAD (Manned Destructive Suppression of Enemy Air Defences) - manned shock suppression of enemy air defense system. It was assumed that the new board receivers will provide an extremely rapid detection of the most modern air defense system radar, target designation and launch rockets on them for a few seconds after detection.However, as a "hunter ZRK" U.S. Air Force chose the cheaper and the massive multi-purpose fighter F-16C Block 40/42, a F-15C and has remained in its traditional incarnation fighter.
 

Modernization of the system

Flight tests and operation of the first batches of F-15A / B in the combatant units identified several deficiencies aircraft. In particular, the weakness of the design of controlled air inlets, resulting restrictions overload when maneuvering at low altitudes. There was a need to refine the already constructed aircraft, and further improve the design. Launched in such a way the process has already never stops. So, in 1984 the U.S. Air Force issued a firm "McDonnell Douglas a contract worth 155.1 million dollars, providing a framework to further strengthen MSIP airframe, providing execution of maneuvers with the overload 9g 7g instead of serial fighter F-15A / B / C / D, as well as strengthening the chassis, which made it possible to increase the maximum takeoff weight of 30,850 to 36,300 kg. In addition, the airline installed a new digital computer, programmable armament control system with color display, a modernized system of the REB, as well as a device to prevent the use of enemy electronic warfare. The first flight of the upgraded program MSIP F-15C fighter held June 20, 1985
Recently launched a new program implemented a phased improvement fighter F-15C / D. These machines are equipped with two modern multi-function displays and booths system of automatic exchange of information L Ink 16. This will allow pilots to "needle" is much more effectively with the AWACS aircraft, ground control centers, as well as among themselves. Reported plans to install this equipment and 100 old aircraft F-15A / B, members of the National Guard, as well as multi-purpose fighter F-15E.
Since mid-2001, modernized and Park F-15E, instead of indicators on the cathode-ray tube installed in the cockpit LCD color displays, in addition, the plane gets a new display control parameters of the power plant. However, the most radical improvement should be to replace the radar AN/APG-70 slot-array antenna on a forward-looking station, equipped with an active phased array antenna (APAA). In such an experiment station, receiving the name AN/APG-63 (V) 2 is already installed on 18 fighters F-15C, located at the airbase Elmsndorf (Alaska). This is the world's first production aircraft equipped with radar antennas of this type (MiG-31, Su-30MKI and Rafale have passive phased array).
In accordance with existing plans, the replacement of the F-15A / B, and F-15C / D fighter aircraft to the early series F/A-22A «Raptor" will begin with the end of 2005, however, if in the early 1990's. The Pentagon planned to buy 648 machines of this type, to date, an order "shrunk" to 295 F/A-22. And consider the possibility of further reductions in procurement. Under these conditions need to preserve fighter F-15C / D for the U.S. Air Force in 2010-ies., A F-15E - and longer-term. Therefore, the U.S. Air Force are preparing to implement a comprehensive program of extending the life cycle of F-15C / D, and F-15E. Revised airframe to include, inter alia, the replacement honeycomb panels in end parts of the wing and vertical tail to wear on the new, less exposed to moisture. On aircraft F-15E can also change the aluminum panels on the carbon fiber wing. On the "Strike needles" is also expected "to activate the" inherent in the design, but not used until the wing components of the external suspension number 1 and number 9. As a result, increase combat payload maximum takeoff weight of aircraft will increase to 37,700 kg.The equipment F-l5E be included night vision goggles. Announced that in the near future there will be unification of software onboard computer fighter F-15C / D, and F-15E These aircraft have to get new equipment and electronic landing system. At the armed F-15C / D in the second half of this decade is expected to include new highly maneuverable missiles air-to-air short-range AIM-9X. Improvements to touch and power plant.
Improve F-15 is also in other countries. For example, July 18, 2003 the Japanese firm Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (M HI ) has started flight tests of the upgraded version of the F-15J. The first stage of modernization (the so-called "Configuration-1") includes the equipping of the new fighter radar firm Ryiheon, as well as the central processing firm Lockheed Martin. In the second phase ("Configuration-2"), to be launched in 2006. aircraft will receive a new system of REB production of Japanese firms. In accordance with the five-year plan the purchase of arms by the end of 2005, the firm M HI is to deliver Self-Defense Forces of Japan 1912 the modernized F-l5J.
As we see, "Eagle", despite his very advanced age, has a rather 
high modernizing potential. We can assume that the amended version of the F-15 along with their Russian counterparts, the modernized Su-27 and Su-30 will remain one of the main "air warriors" in the second decade of this century. Of course, in its combat capabilities, they will lose, although not as significant as it seems to some analysts, this has not yet kindled "stars" of the fifth generation, as an American F/A-22, or the Russian PAK FA. But amid less "advanced" European aircraft the Typhoon and Rafale, as well as the Chinese J-10 modernized "Eagle" would look quite adequately. And if you take into account the planned equipping it with new types of weapons and well-spent in the U.S. Air Force's information management activities fighter aircraft, we can speak even a slight advantage of the "Igla" over them. So that put an end to the F-15 is still too early - this theme will become relevant only in the next decade.

Is it the Best of the World?

F-15 quickly gained the sympathy combatant pilots. When they got the opportunity to express their views to journalists about the car, the white light spread: «The Best of the World» (the best in the world). Of course, Americans always had the aspiration to produce a tag «Made in USA», however, until the international arena, the Su-27 "Eagle" was really no competition. Avionics and weapons F-15, as well as its high performance characteristics provided an opportunity to act autonomously fighter in the enemy uses of RAP, day and night, and adverse weather conditions and against air targets at high and low altitudes. Camouflaged reduced by more than three times dymlenie engines compared with the power plant "Phantom" made it difficult to visually detect the F-15 in the melee. All the required pilot flight and sighting information is displayed on display on the windshield (HUD). Unconditional approval of the pilots caused the location of main control board weapons, radar and communication system for throttle and stick control of the aircraft (system HOTAS).
Ground handling the "Igla", compared with the F-4, required for 44% less labor costs for 1 hour flight and 45% less time to prepare for re-flight. The process of replacing the engine only lasted 30 minutes. High maintainability plane was achieved at the expense of easy access (no ladders) to the onboard systems and equipment through the hatches, the total area which was 53 m2, with 40% of them opened without tools; The modular design of avionics and engine, a high degree of standardization, the availability of embedded control systems, as well as the use of auxiliary power unit (APU) for self-starting motors and drive assemblies of aircraft on the ground.
Despite Enron F-15A / B early release of design flaws, these machines in early 1980. were the best tactical aircraft the U.S. Air Force for operational readiness. The highest achievements demonstrated unit, based in Western Europe. So, in March 1982, this figure all the F-15 U.S. Air Force was 64,5%, while stationed in the Old World - 73,1% (71,4% - for the 36 th Tactical Wing (1W), located in Germany at Bitburg Air Base and stocked with the latest F-15C and F-15D). In the sequel to "needle" based in Bitburg, this figure was reduced to 92.8%.
In the first half of 1980 in the 36 th TFW there were 79 planes F-15: 72 fighters were part of three squadrons, and 7 cars were in the reserves intended to compensate for possible loss or replacement of drill machines for maintenance. The base at Bitburg during the Cold War played a key role in ensuring air defense of the central group of NATO. Four aircraft of the 36 th Wing constantly in readiness for a five-minute sortie when the pilots that "needle" time showed off an alarm that does not exceed four minutes (a record figure - Z min 37C). Equally good results were achieved constant training: a monthly average was performed 50-60 missions on alert. Did not depart from the pilots and ground staff of the 36 th TFW. In preparation for re-fueling fighter crashes fuel and suspension of arms took just 12 minutes. But here, his life champions who have managed to reduce this figure to 11 minutes. In the fight to reduce regulations had to sacrifice something in the aircraft structure. In particular, local craftsmen have removed the outer shields designed to protect elements of the system regulating the engine nozzle and employees fairing tail turbofans. This slightly increased the aerodynamic drag, but allowed almost 10% reduction in the complexity of maintenance. "Needles" really demonstrated their outstanding capabilities and on the other side of the planet - in Asia. Thus, during the exercise "Team Spirit 82". held in the Western Pacific, 24 fighter F-15A, based at Kadena Air Base (Okinawa Fr.), for 9 days made 418 "combat" missions, of which 233 - in three days. The degree of combat readiness of aircraft amounted to almost 100%.
F-15 kept the "prize" of place and safety. So, on April 1982, "Needles" flew 523,000 hours and the average accident rate second only to A-10. It should be noted that according to the norms of the U.S. Air Force flight accidents is considered to be the case when the aircraft caused damage amounting to not less than 0,5 million USD. By 1984, accident rates fleet F-15 decreased and was lowest in the U.S. Air Force. As such it remains today. High reliability and survivability of the machine can be illustrated by the following example. During one air combat training F-15 collided with another aircraft. As a result, it has almost completely lost the left console stabilizer and left rudder, and a large part of the left fin. The back of the left wing was also badly damaged.However, the plane still landed safely. Another dogfight with an airplane A-4 Skyhawk, simulating the MiG-21, also ended in a collision. As a result of an Israeli F-15 almost completely lost his right wing (except the root area of ​​0,6 m span). Nevertheless, the pilot of the "Igla" he decided to have landed Touch band occurred at a speed of 540 km / h, and braking - by accidental hook.So successful completion of these incidents experts "McDonnell-Douglas" explained the presence of a sufficiently large lift force generated by a combination of "scoop-fuselage, as well as highly qualified pilots. During another flight accident in central PTB was struck by lightning, causing the explosion of fuel vapors. The lower part of the fuselage was broken by shrapnel and 200 severely damaged by fire. But this time the plane was saved.
By early 1999 type aircraft F-15, raised the U.S. Air Force, Israel, Saudi Arabia and Japan, leaned, in total, more than 3.5 million hours have proven to be extremely reliable cars that have a high degree of combat readiness. However, as with any complex technology, to falter and "Eagle." So, 13 November 1982 Command U.S. Air Force announced the suspension of flights 632 of the F-15 (ie, all machines of this type are available at the U.S. air arsenal) due to servo failure stabilizers.
By the end of the Soviet Union at airshows rose "star" Su-27 fighter, which quickly became a rival of the "Igla" on international arms markets. Comparison of these aircraft can demonstrate the advantages and disadvantages of both the F-15 aircraft. Comparing the tabulated characteristics of both machines, you can draw the following conclusions. Maximum aerodynamic quality of F-15A for M = 0.9 is 10 and the Su-27 - 11.6 (new record for fourth-generation fighter). On such an important criterion, as the thrust-weight ratio, the most easy version of "Needle» F-15A corresponds approximately to the Su-27: Take-off thrust-weight ratio of these machines during normal takeoff
mass, respectively, are 1.14 (with 6100 kg of fuel and armament, consisting of 
four AIM-7F missiles and four AIM-7L) and 1.15 (with a primary option for fueling - 5240 kg of fuel and weapons, including two F-27E and two P-73), and the military - 1.26 and 1.29. Heavier F-15C has a lower take-off thrust-weight ratio - 1.05. At the same time, this parameter is "Eagle" significantly superior to all other Western counterparts (v F-16A - 1,02, in F/A-18A - 0,90, in "Mirage" 2000 -0.81). Only in the last series of F-16C, the figure was 1,08-1,09. Su-27 has an advantage over the F-15 on the speed of transient and steady turns, as well as the acceleration capabilities. All this at an equal level of qualification of pilots reduces the chances of the "Igla" to win in close combat maneuvering over the Su-27. Confirmation of this was the so-called joint maneuvers (a kind of simulated battle), which was held in 1992 during the visit of fighters from the 6 th of the Center of combat employment and retraining of pilots of the Air Force of Russia (Lipetsk) at an air base Leigli (Virginia) where stationed, 1 st Tactical Air Wing U.S. Air Force then fly the Su-27UB to Mr. G. Karabasovu was fairly easy to take and securely hold a position in the tail of F-15D, despite all attempts to tear the American pilot.
In 1993, a return visit to Lipetsk group from the 1 st TFW. Interest is the assessment, which gave the F-15 Russian pilots were able to pilot the "Eagle" in America and at home. Here is the opinion of General A. Harchevskogo: " F -15 - well-managed machine with excellent reviews, which has no restrictions on the spin. When she tries to get a corkscrew from various positions, the plane only leads his nose from side to side, not wanting to start rotating. During the maneuver, "Eagle" leaves on the angles of attack up to 25 °, while maintaining control. Control of the airplane soft, machine perfectly obey the rudders, the efforts of the handle is much smaller than that of the Su-27 However, the aerodynamics of the F-15 less than perfect, which Sukhoi: it accelerates more slowly during the maneuver and quickly stalled. At the same time, the direct acceleration capabilities of both fighters are about equal. Disruption to F -15 starts a little earlier than the Su-27. On his approach. Can be judged, in particular, on-increasing noise in the cabin. F-15 taking off slower than the Sukhoi (in group take-off quartet consisting of two Su-27UV and two F-15 Russian helicopters to
withstand the operation, were forced to turn off the afterburner, while the Americans took off at full afterburner). Minimum speed of the F-15 - 210 km / h. This is significantly higher than that of the Su-27 and MiG-29. However, the effectiveness of the stabilizer tselyyupovorotnogo Igla preserved at run at speeds up to 100 km / h. Bend radius greater than the F-15, which the Su-27 ". In general, according to Harchevskogo, "Eagle" by maneuvering characteristics inferior to the Su-27 and MiG-29. By
Assessment TsBPiGShS other pilot, maneuvering the possibility of "needle" best meet the same capabilities of the MiG-23MLD. According to the pilots of the Lipetsk center, engines F100-PW-200, installed on the F-15C / D, have the worst pick-up compared with the AL-31F.Indirectly, it was showed during the flight in Leigli: sitting in the front cockpit F-15D Mr Karabasov drew attention to the fact that an American pilot working too hard RUDom. Handle the motor control F-15 has no catches, which also, according to Russian standards, it is not convenient. American fighter aircraft cockpit having a dark brown, almost black color of the dashboard and panels, with small, hard to read indicator devices, even delicate Harchevsky called "horrible", not to mention the more categorical Karabasove.
Stiff and uncomfortable and seemed ejection seat. However, the perception of an unfamiliar aircraft cabin by Russian pilots will inevitably be highly subjective, they are simply not accustomed to small-format indicators embedded in the American fighters in the 1950-ies. It can be assumed that a rigid chair Igla can feel better airplane: it is known that the main body of the perception of spatial position of an aircraft is just the rear pilot. But it is unexpected and unexplained absence seemed to Russian pilots of the attractive belt at the ejection seat F-15 (as, indeed, other fighter the USAF). During the piloting Karabasov brought his "Eagle" on the negative
overload and watched as the "floated" an American in the front cabin (the poor fellow did not expect such a maneuver and tightened the belt that secures the pilot in his chair. At the same time, the view from the cockpit of the American fighter was simply gorgeous both forward and backward. It was noted that preflight training F-15 longer than the Su-27, and requires a larger number of operations.
Significantly inferior to the F-15 "dry" and on such an important indicator as the practical range.During the repatriation of Russians over the United States accompanied by the F-15C. Their crews are very worried about a headwind on the road, though each "Eagle" carrying three PTB.
Much more difficult than flying and operational characteristics, to compare the Avionics F-15 and Su-27, because during flight at Langley and Lipetsk Electronics aircraft almost never used.However, by the undoubted advantages of Su-27 before "Iglom (note and Americans) should include the presence of the PA board, in addition to radar, optical and radar sighting system, as well as helmet-mounted sighting system.
With minimal load on external hardpoints not use the F-15 with unpaved runways, with the strength of the order of 12-14 kg / cm 2, but in practice, "Needles", used only a concreted lane.Interestingly, when in 1993, was preparing to visit the F-15 to Russia, there was significant incident. Arriving in Lipetsk to prepare the arrival of their fighters, Americans were horrified by the local runway, which was considered by Russian standards, quite prosperous, and stated that she had to fly the F-15 is just impossible. Eventually, the flight did take place, but the Americans taxiing, taking off and landing with extreme caution.
A significant step in the development of the F-15 became multifunctional "Strike Eagle", which for many years ahead of the emergence of similar variants of the Su-27, in fact today the home of Sukhoi in combat operation there are only fighters and combat-capable vehicles this family, and multi-soo -30MKI fighters from the end of 1990. began to arrive only in the Indian Air Force. In the States, the first drill part (4 th Tactical Air Wing, stationed at the airbase Johnson. North Carolina) received F-15E in the October-December 1988 Further machines of this type were armed with 57-e (Nellis, ea. Nevada), 3 -e (Elmendorf, ea. Alaska), 366-e (Monteyn Hom. pc. Idaho) and 48 th (Leykeihez, UK) aviakrylya. Experience in operating the new aircraft has shown that the load on the crew when flying at extremely low altitude and in adverse weather conditions, despite the high level of automation and is extremely modern information-control field cockpit, was still quite high, in connection with which it took more training to pilots and operators of F-15E. Crews to deliver trouble and colored lights, the image which illuminates when exposed to direct sunlight.

Eagle attacks

The first state, applied the F-15 in action, became Israel. Receipt of F-15A adopted Hel Haavir began in October 1976 when it was formed by the 133rd Squadron "Eagles", a state which included the best-trained pilots who had combat experience and have undergone training in the U.S.. Picking the Orlov technique was completed in 1978 In 1975, civil war broke out in Lebanon between pro-Israeli groups and the army, supported by Syria. In 1976, in accordance with the decision of the Arab League, in the central regions of Lebanon were introduced inter-Arab deterrent forces (mainly the Syrian army). In March 1978, Israel occupied the south of the country. Under these conditions, resumed Syrian-Israeli air war.
June 27, 1979 F-15 first entered into a dogfight with a real enemy, the day the Israeli strike aircraft made another attempt to bomb bases of Palestinian forces in southern Lebanon. Intercept was lifted two links MiG-21bis - the most advanced combat aircraft available at that time at the disposal of the Syrian Air Force. In turn, the Syrians were attacked by a mixed group of Israeli cover, composed of six F-15A and two "Kfir". Crossing the Israeli fighter aircraft provided AWACS E-2C "Hawkeye", circled over the Mediterranean Sea. During the passing maneuver battlefield, which sucked the warring parties, according to Israeli data, four Syrian MiG fighter jets were shot down F-15, and one - the joint efforts of the "Igla" and "Kfir". The Syrians have confirmed the loss of four MiG-21. Another of their fighter aircraft was damaged, but it was piloted by Mr. Kubis Saliba managed to make an emergency landing on the Lebanese Rayak airbase. Victory in the air combat pilots won "needle" and Menachem Einav Eitan Ben-Elihau, as well as two pilots who remained under the pseudonyms "Eitan" and "Tzuri. Israelis deny their own losses. However, we can fairly confidently say that the pilots of the MiG-21bis were able to "bury" two F-15: Palestinians have confirmed the fall of the two "needle" and captured one of the pilots ejected.
In the next fight, which occurred on September 19, the pilots "needle" again reported on the destruction of four MiG-21. As a result of a fight Sept. 24 in which the Israeli side, again played a key role F-15A, Hel Haavir announced four aerial victories. August 24, 1980 n fighter F-I5A once again managed to shoot down the MiG-21. Another dogfight occurred on Dec. 31, 1980: Israelis said they had succeeded in destroying two MiG, but the Syrians have recognized the loss of only one of its aircraft and announced the destruction of an Israeli.
In general, the dogfights in the skies of southern Lebanon showed that Israel's aviation group, which combines fourth-generation fighter aircraft with AEW, qualitatively superior to Syria.However, in 1981, "Needles" met in the skies of Lebanon with a new serious rival - MiG-25PD.Squadron, which gave the Soviet Union in Syria.
February 13 and July 29 for their participation there were two air battles whose outcome was a draw: lost two MiG "and two" Igla ".
One of the most striking fragments of biographies of Israeli F-15 was involved in "Operation Babylon" - a raid on an Iraqi nuclear center, undertaken July 7, 1981 Israel decides to resort to such drastic measures, fearing the emergence of Iraq's arsenal of nuclear weapons. Actually the attack was to implement the eight F-16A for the cover which identified six F-15A. Strike group took off from Etzion airbase in the Sinai peninsula at 15.00. Beating from the south at low altitude air defense system and the Jordanian way of the desert north-western regions of Saudi Arabia, F-16 entered the airspace of Iraq. F-15 the border of this state do not cross. At 18.35 "Fighting Falcon" Freefall bombs rained down 16 per reactor, "Osirak, which was completely destroyed.Neither Jordan nor Saudi Arabia (has at that time very modern air defense system, created with the participation of American and British), nor Iraq were unable to detect a relatively large group of enemy aircraft and reflect the strike. Allegations that Israeli jets simply could not achieve in Iraq, because not have sufficient range and, consequently, the impact
for "Osirak b sk suffered by Americans, is also extremely concerned about the successes of Iraq's nuclear program. The author believes that these concerns unfounded: there is nothing to prevent the Israelis refuel in the air, because the necessary fleet of tankers they had. In this case, fuel is quite enough to deal with combat missions and returning to the aerodrome without the help of the mythical Americans.
13 and May 14, 1981 Lebanese proxy form with the support of Hel Haavir began an offensive in the mountainous region Sanya, but these attacks were repulsed, and the Syrian air defense system "Square" shot down two F-15A (the wreckage of one of them showed a number of TV channels). Escalation of the conflict forced the Soviet leadership to decide on the transfer of Syria though not new, but quite modern MiG-23MF, which soon became one of the main opponents of a needle. "
For Israelis, too, received reinforcements. Since August 1981 the 133rd Squadron began re-equip with more modern F-15C / D. By the summer of 1982 Hel Haavir maintain qualitative superiority over the Syrian air force: in addition to 48 F-15, they received 75 F-16. The aircraft has an important role in the offensive operation "Peace for Galilee", which aims to exit to the Mediterranean coast on the outskirts of Beirut, destroying the Palestinian camps, and the environment of Syrian troops in the Bekaa valley. June 6 camps Palestinians had suffered a massive air strikes, at the same time the offensive began mechanized formations, attacking Palestinian polupartizanskie formation. Soon the fight entered the Syrian tank battalions,reinforced unit "commandos" and mobile air defense missile system "Osa-LC. On that day, two MiG-23MF air force Syria intercepted an Israeli drone reconnaissance BQM-34. bsh which destroyed missile R-23 issued to Mr. Zakaria from a distance of 11 km. Upon returning to the airfield Syrian fighters were attacked by F-15A, an imposed from the aircraft E-2C. Vigorously maneuvering, the Syrian pilots disrupted the maintenance of radar Israelis moved the wings of his fighter on the maximum angle of sweep, quickly increased the speed and with reduced left from prosecution.
On the second day of the war, Israeli aircraft began to inflict massive attacks on Syrian forces in Bekaa Valley. As a rule, initially to the coast of Lebanon, taking positions over neutral waters, was nominated "Hawkeye", acting as airborne command posts, and the director of radio interference, "Boeing 707". Their immediate cover provided by two or four F-15 is slightly lower than the Syrian radio horizon. Next abreast of Beirut, beyond the reach of the coastal anti-aircraft Syrians turned around a movable barrier: 2-4 level F-15 and F-16. 
Shock train, formed into a column built to be functioning as fighter-bombers, "Phantom", came last. Israeli aircraft were approaching the Lebanese coast at a height of 2000 m, and the mountains were not allowed to discover their Syrian radar until the passage of the coastal ridge, where there were advanced observers Arabs. At the same time able to "look over the hill" "Hawkeye" could pinpoint the Syrian fighter jets as soon as they took off and gained altitude of 100 m.
In Lebanon, the Israelis presented the enemy once tactical surprise: the first on Syrian fighters were directed not heavy F-15, equipped with medium-range missiles, while the lighter F-16A, carrying only a melee weapon. Link F-I6 for couples stretched out in a column, dropping to a low altitude, after which the first pair clashed trying to enter the Syrian fighter planes in the tail (receiving a "sandwich"). If the trap of the F-16 did not work, in the meeting engagement introduced the F-15. holding in this case, a significant advantage, in turn, the Syrian Air Force also used the "home-made." On the recommendation of advisers from the USSR. MiG-23MF was decided not to apply in pairs and threes. Aircraft were put forward in the area of ​​attack is extremely small (less than 100 m) high, trying to stay unnoticed by Israeli lokatorschikami. The Group was in a very tight formation and was observed on radar screens as a target. Then, the opening - two aircraft gained altitude, causing a fire on himself, and a third stroke, fell to the ground and carried out a surprise attack from the bottom up. But only use such tactics the Arabs could not. Since they have no AWACS aircraft and for ground-based radars have become a significant obstacle to the mountains, the Air Force Command of Syria had to allocate equipped with powerful radar MiG-25MF to patrol the airspace over the Bekaa Valley. However, without information support from the ground, they became easy prey for "needle" induced by AWACS aircraft and pounce from low altitudes.
June 7 three Syrian MiG-23MF (pilots Hallyak, Side and freezing) attacked a group of F-16A from the first echelon of the Israeli military order. By Mr. freezing discovered Israeli fighters at a distance of 25 km. From a distance of 9 km it go to Start P-23 and destroyed the first F-16. The second missile from 7 km freezing shot down another fighter. However, when exiting the attack Syrian aircraft itself was hit by a missile fired from aboard the F-15. Freezing managed to eject safely. Returning to his unit, he brought not only a valuable military assets - parachute, but the captive Israeli pilot who ejected from an F-16. June 9 at Valley Zahrapi began a large-scale battle between the main forces of Israeli and Syrian factions in Lebanon. The intensity of air combat has increased significantly, in the morning two MiG-23MF, manned pilots Dibom and Said, attacking a pair of F-16 shot down one of them, but after that the plane was destroyed by Diba F-15. Another pair of MiG-23MF (pilots Nahaz and Zeno) managed to bring down another F-16. But this time the Syrians have not been able to avoid losses: missile, launched from aboard the "Igla", was struck by a car Nahaza. After 14 hours of contractions increased air glow, and the pilots of the 133rd Squadron Israeli Air Force made significant progress by reducing the current fleet of enemy fighters on two MiG-23MF and two MiG-23MS (one of the survivors of Syrian pilots Yasin then said that the attack "Igla" was a complete surprise). In addition to these six "twenty-third," pilots "needle" was shot down in one day, six MiG-21 (Israeli media have declared the destruction of 22 aircraft). On the Syrian data, aerial combat was liquidated in June of enemy vehicles, including two F-15. The next day, fighting in the air reached a climax - on both sides fought to 350 aircraft. The Israelis have announced the 26 air victories, including 7 - on account of F-15. In fact, the Syrians lost 22 machines. 11 June tireless "Eagles", on the Syrian data, destroyed two MiG-23MS and four MiG-21MF. In total, in air combat 6 - June 11 Israelis, mostly pilots F-15A and F-15C, managed to bring down 47 Arab fighters: four MiG-23MS and six MiG-23MF, twenty-six MiG-21bis and eleven MiG- 21MF. In addition, operating at low altitudes the F-16 and F-15 together with the army air defenses destroyed seven fighter-bomber Su-22M and 14 MiG-23BN and 3 helicopters. Loss of Israeli aircraft in aerial combat were, on the Syrian data, 42 aircraft (among them, at least five F-15), as well as 1-2 unmanned reconnaissance aircraft.
During the fighting in June 1982, the main weapon of the Israeli F-15 and F-16 were rockets with thermal homing AIM-9L "Sidewinder." Slightly less effectively used SD medium-range AIM-7E «Sparrow." Cannon fire, according to reports of Israeli pilots managed to shoot down only 6 aircraft and helicopters. It should be noted that the average efficiency of rockets "Sidewinder" and "Sparrow" was slightly lower than the P-23 and P-60M, which have used the Syrians. While Israel and Syria reached an agreement on ceasefire, but clashes in Lebanon continued. In August 1982 the Soviet leadership decided to put Damascus new batch of military equipment, including 50 MiG-23ML missile R-24. This has a definite change in the qualitative balance of forces in the air favor of the Arabs.
October 4, 1982 F-15 fighter jets over Lebanon held the first air battle with the new "MiGami. At this time the tide has turned against the Israelis: the Syrians with a dry account "shot down two Igla. Somewhat later, the MiG-23ML. and without loss, and destroyed another F-15 and one F-4E.
F-15C was one of the "stars" of the 1991 war in the Persian Gulf. 120 fighter aircraft of this type of U.S. Air Force, and Saudi Arabia made ​​during "Desert Storm" over 5,900 sorties and shot down 37 of 39 aircraft lost (according to allies) Iraq in aerial combat. Of these, the American "Needles" destroyed 35 cars (Mirage »F.1, MiG-23, MiG-25, Su-22 and Su-25), and two" Mirage »F.1 knocked in one battle pilot of Saudi Arabia . "Needles" ever to perform long-duration patrols of 6-8 hours, repeatedly refueling from KC-135 tankers. All downed their aircraft were struck SD "Sidewinder" and "Sparrow" during the interceptions by commands from the AWACS aircraft. Appearing in the Western press memories pilots "needle" are written with a typical cowboy mettle. Here is a typical example. Says the pilot of F-15C to-n 68-th TFS Scheyvi Anthony (Anthony Schiavi): «It was the ninth day of the war, and we fought well. Our main job was to protect against the threat from the air planes of E-SG / C System Sentry AWACS. The air is constantly carrying three AWACSa: to the east, central and west, together they controlled all airspace. In addition, during the war threat from the air has less, and in our actions have more flexibility. Imagine that you are a regular patrol flight over the radio and get command: "Hey, we plan to kick F -111, would not want you to clear their air space? "Even in normal patrol flight can be an adventure. We just were on patrol, had just fallen for the first tanker to refuel. We were near the Jordanian border, in the 80-90 miles from the Iraqi airfields, designated H2, and NC. Go to the tanker, we flew four. My second pair refueled. As soon as we moved away from the tanker, AWACS, said: "With the H2 flew a group of gangsters, is directed to the northeast." At this point, our commander, Captain (Rbory) Draeger asked permission to attack them. AWACS permission. The four of us turned to the northeast to intercept these guys.Firepower "needle" is awful. When the four F -15 close to someone, he has no chance to escape.Being in a hundred miles from the Iraqis, we flew as fast as we could with our three outboard tanks. At first I thought: "We do not have enough fuel to intercept them. We too slowly become closer. " Approaching 80 miles, we were at the point where there should have been turned, not to get into a zone of saturated air defenses. But then we got the message that the H2 soared 4 more Iraqis. We just took good position to attack them. Starting a turn at them, we feared that the first group can turn to us and we will find ourselves between two groups of Iraqis. We hoped that the AWACS will warn us, but operators have said that the first group had gone too far and they lost sight of it. The second group consisted of MiG-23. They flew at low altitude, below 1000 feet.However, our radars detected the parameters of their distance 80 miles. For some unknown reason one of them is spun, and later landed on the H2. possible for technical reasons. But the three continued the flight, and we saw them on the screens. It was fun. Everything, as in the exercises. Three beautiful labels that come in a standard formation, characteristic of the Soviet pilots. Distance was reduced to 30 miles. We dropped the wing tanks, leaving the ventral, and went into a decline from the height of 20,000 feet and at speeds of Mach 1.1. The weather was cloudy, the ground we have not seen. When we reached 20 miles, Captain Dregerras defined goal: he attacks the lead, I - the north-western slave, the remaining two - the south. Now we had to fulfill its goal of capturing each and shoot. The captain fired the first shot. I've seen came off his rocket. I shot the following, after a few seconds after it. Since the second pair flew slightly behind us, the third rocket launch took place in a few more seconds. Breaking through the clouds, I saw the captain of a rocket struck their target. It exploded on the right and rear of MIGA, who flew so low that I saw a dust trail behind it. MiG on fire, but did not fall. Draeger was going to shoot "Sidewinder" heat from the head, but before he could do it, the Iraqi plane turned into a fireball bochshoy. I was so captured by the vision of all this that I forgot about my rocket after the first explosion, the remaining two MiG's made ​​a sharp right turn on us. But no matter what they did - it was too late. My rocket has overtaken the second MiG. A few seconds later blew up the third.Satisfied by what he saw, we began to climb, going away from the threat to land. "
"Desert Storm" was the baptism of fire for multifunction F-15E, which together with the F-111F extensively involved in major strategic defeat for chains on the territory of Iraq: command posts, depots, airfields, communications sites, air defense infrastructure, etc. "Strike Needles" operated mainly at night (during the day are widely used simpler F-16, F/A-18 and A-10). Very soon one of the main objectives of these machines was the destruction of ballistic Scud missiles, which started with a highly mobile launchers, placed on vehicles with high cross. They constantly change their positions, making a night march. Deposition of air strikes directly on the launchers were ineffective: the first 10 days of the air war the U.S. Air Force could not destroy the earth a single Scud. This forced the Americans to adopt a new tactic - the night mining "Blast" roads that Scud performed their marches. These actions have had great success, and several launchers
(Along with many civilian vehicles use the same highways) have been destroyed.
That's what about the war recalled the pilot 336 th TFS to Mr. Robertson, Darrel (Darrel Robertson). 
"For the F-15E had three clearly distinguishable types of missions. Strategic air raids on Iraqi territory, raids on Scud in the west and flights to the Kuwaiti theater of operations to attack the Republican Guard, its tanks and armies. Due to the systems of FUR and L ANT1RN we could work both day and night, but 9 out of 10 of our flights were at night. We are very tired. BecauseF-15F was the most modern aircraft systems, often we were trailing in the performance of a variety of percussion missions. Sometimes Iraqi antiaircraft fire greeted us before the border and escorted all the way to goal and back. There were times when we came over the target, and we did not shoot anybody. But as soon as the first shells explode, and soon the whole sky was a break. Well, in most cases, they could not reach us. as We bombed from a great height.
The hunt for Scud usually conducted so. We hung in the air in a state of alert, when c AWACSa team acted quickly to arrive at a certain area. We did it with disappointment. Scud became more and more secretive, and often we simply strolled idly over western Iraq. We just wonder why in this work sends us, not someone else? It was in that other aircraft do not have the chance to discover them. If we did not find the SCUD, we searched for other purposes and dropping bombs on them, but never returned to the cargo
We were carrying a different payload. Initially, when there was a high probability of air combat, we were carrying two missiles AI M-7 and six cluster bombs Rocheye. Later carrying 12,500-pound bombs, Mk.82. By the end of the war, we were hanging container systems targeting with laser-guided bombs and were able to apply the GBU-12. Five crews flew with these containers, and highlights the objectives, and themselves bombs were dropped from other planes. When you spend a bomb on a target when you see 14 tanks destroyed 14 bombs, you know without a doubt that can kick any ass. I have completed only two day mission, but during one of them was attacked by a missile surface-to-air missiles. I noticed the start, when we were deployed. The rocket was coming, and smoked like crazy. I even saw her fire engine. I have completed a reversal, but she turned on me. His head flashed the thought: "The missile is approaching, and I should think the only right decision." And I did everything I was taught as a purely automatic. My under-wing tanks gave way, though I pressed the button, not remember. I turned on the rocket and shooting infrared, and radar traps. Missile has been under the plane and exploded at a distance of 1000 feet. It was unforgettable. "
By the statements of some American experts, the use of veterans' »F-111F was more efficient than the F-15E. In particular, there was a nedovedennost of LANTIRN, as a result of the "Strike a needle" is not carrying a full set of equipment that is not allowed to use weapons with laser-guided, and some F-15E had to equip the containers with the optoelectronic system "Peyve Tak", borrowed from F-4E. Affected and the lack of crew training - before the beginning of hostilities, they only started learning LANTIRN. Still, American commanders believed that, given the novelty factor technology F-15E lived up to their expectations. During the fighting, "Strike Needles" completed 2142 sorties. Initially it was reported that the loss amounted to two aircraft, but in later publications to mention the three hit by a car of this type.
Fighting between Iraqi and American aircraft continued sporadically and after "Desert Storm".Thus, on 25 December 1992 over southern Iraq was a struggle between the MiG-25P and F-15E, which ended unsuccessfully. January 2, 1993 Mr. Iraqi MiG-25P tried to intercept high-altitude reconnaissance U-2, but was himself attacked by F-15C, however, and this time it was completed without any consequences for both sides. January 15, 1999 there was another incident. A pair of F-15 patrolling the no-fly zone to the south-west of Baghdad. After some time, worked onboard warning systems
irradiation with radar that allowed pilots to "needle" to determine that they are trying to attack two MiG-25P. After completing a defensive maneuver, the Americans fired on the enemy one missile Sparrow and three A1M-120A AMRAAM, but Iraqi fighters successfully evaded this volley and fled. Launch of missiles from their side was not recorded.
F-15E took part in NATO operations in former Yugoslavia. November 21, 1994 they were among the 39 aircraft of various types, attacking Bosnian Serb air base in Udbina. F-15E dropped a few KAB "Peyvuey" 1H laser-guided air base adjacent to areas of high-speed freeways, which could serve as a spare runway. As acknowledged by the peacekeepers, in general, this raid was a failure: the damage was minor, an air base and its air defenses have kept fighting capacity. After three days 20 NATO planes attacked Serb air defense system in the area of ​​Otoko, with the F-15E dealt a blow to the C-75 with anti-radar missiles AGM-88 HARM.
F-15C was the most powerful NATO fighters who took part in the hostilities in the Balkans in 1999 was entrusted on them, in particular, escorting bombers, Strategic Air Command United States, as well as providing air defense in a combat zone. One of the first successful air battles involving the "needle" has occurred in the evening on March 26 over the north-eastern Bosnia, when a pair of F-15C from 48-th IAKR on commands from the aircraft AWACS E-3 "Sentry" was hovering over a group of Serb planes poring 8 km into Bosnian airspace. The U.S. command announced then the destruction of two MiG-29, one of which "fall into Bosnia, but the pilot managed to eject the Serbian and escape prosecution. In turn, the Yugoslavs have reported that they had shot down two F-15 themselves "military suffered no losses." Brought some clarity to the television footage chronicles: first Western television showed debris "Serb" aircraft, which managed to shoot late at night. But a closer look at one of the relatively well-preserved sections of allegedly plating MiG stencils were found in the English language, which clearly indicated the origin of the NATO hit by a car. A little later, early in the morning, it was possible to show the press the other fragments, which clearly guessed MiG-29. "Spread-eagled on the ground plane is preserved relatively well, even the rocket R-27R1 remained at the sites of the external suspension. Almost at the same time, the world's leading TV channels have been footage chronicles: the stricken F-15 of the last forces "pull" under the guise of another fighter on the Adriatic Sea, leaving behind a white trail.
F-15E in this campaign was a major shock Allied aircraft. Compared with the F-16C carried a machine is much more impressive weapons load was somewhat greater radius of action in the shock case (about 1100-1200 km from the conformal tanks) and could carry large ammunition, in particular, KAB penetrating GBU-28 caliber 2100 kg, Used mainly for destroying silnoukreplennyh structures (in particular, shelters for aircraft). "Strike Eagle" was the only carrier in the U.S. Air Force tactical cruise missile, AGM-130 guided bombs and GBU-15. Planes of this type have been extensively involved for the suppression of air defense of the Yugoslavs, using anti-radar missiles AGM-88 HARM. However, the effectiveness of this weapon was in fact highly questionable. According to a senior Department of Defense several years after the end of the war in the Balkans: "We fired 800 missiles into Kosovo HARM worth 200-300 thousand USD each, and was struck with only one anti-aircraft missile launcher." Official information on casualties F-15E (from both NATO and the Serbs) is absent. However, three kills and two damaged aircraft such as F-15 may have and F-15 E.
After the tragedy of September 11, 2001, American fighters, including F-15 from the Air Force and Air National Guard began patrolling the airspace of the United States. Less than a month as the U.S. moved into a "crusade" against global terrorism, "the hornet's nest" is a Manager odious Taliban regime of Afghanistan.
Prior to the outbreak of hostilities could not get permission to place tactical aircraft in the country surrounding Muslim states, and it seemed that the operation "Enduring Freedom" will take place without the participation of the F-15. However, on 17 October, it was officially announced on the first mission of "Strike a needle" in the campaign. They acted, probably, from a British air base in Bahrene, which required to pass on the very length of the route are bent Iranian airspace. Further allegations of involvement by a few groups of F-15E in the attacks on Afghanistan began to repeat itself. Nov. 21, when the operation was already in the final phase, Uzbekistan made its territory U.S. combat aircraft. At an airfield near the city of Karshi, where in his time in Afghanistan working Soviet Su-24 lightning have been transferred from the F-15E based in the UK 48 th Wing.
F-15C and F-15E is actively used in anti-Iraq campaign in 2003 provided the first Allied air defenses in theater, and the latter acted in the strike group tactical aircraft. The Iraqi air force has expressed complete passivity (was only one flight of MiG-25RB reconnaissance), and any success the fighters do not have: their actions were limited to routine air patrols in conjunction with the aircraft E-3 AWACS. But "Strike Needles" fought very actively. They attacked with responsive bombs of various types, including JDAM, as well as single cassettes filled with antitank and antipersonnel submunitions (the latter intended for the action area targets, causing large casualties among the civilian population). Although Iraq's air defense resisted, F-15, unlike other types of machines, suffered no losses.
Our troubled world continues to boil, and hardly even the most convinced pacifists may argue that for the foreseeable future armed conflicts on the planet will cease. If we consider the manner of U.S. behavior in the international arena, we can fairly confidently say continued fighting using the "needle", a reputation for efficient machines of destruction. Will it just acts of force or be part of a new conflict? This question can only answer time.
Editorial Board expresses its appreciation for the assistance while working on an article, Zaur Eylanbekovu (USA), Masayuki Yano (Japan).

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Known variants of the suspension arms on the F-15E:

Operation Desert Storm

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
1x AN/AAQ-14 Targeting Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
5x GBU-10 Paveway II, 956 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total : 211.5 +211.5 +91 * 4 +956 * 5 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +211.5 +364 +4780 +4000 = 9567 kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
6x CBU-87 Cluster, 431 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total : 211.5 +91 * 4 +431 * 6 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +364 +2586 +4000 = 7161.5 kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
12x Mk.82 LDGP, 241 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total : 211.5 +91 * 4 +241 * 12 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +364 +2892 +4000 = 7467.5 kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
1x AN/AAQ-14 Targeting Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
4x GBU-12 Paveway II, 227 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total : 211.5 +211.5 +91 * 4 +227 * 4 ​​+2000 * 2 = 211.5 +211.5 +364 +908 +4000 = 5695kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
8x GBU-12 Paveway II, 227 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total : 211.5 +91 * 4 +227 * 8 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +364 +1816 +4000 = 6391.5 kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
4x GBU-10 Paveway II, 934 - 956 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total: 211.5 +91 * 4 +956 * 4 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +364 +3824 +4000 = 8399.5 kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
12x CBU-87 Cluster Bombs, 431 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total : 211.5 +91 * 4 +431 * 12 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +364 +5172 +4000 = 9747.5 kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
2x AIM-7F / M Sparrow, 230 kg
6x Mk.20 Cluster Bombs, 220 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total : 211.5 +91 * 4 +230 * 2 +220 * 6 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +364 +460 +1320 +4000 = 6355.5 kg

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
4x AIM-9L / M Sidewinder, 91 kg
12x Mk.82 LDGP, 241 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total: 211.5 +91 * 4 +241 * 12 +2000 * 2 = 211.5 +364 +2892 +4000 = 7467.5 kg

Operation Northern Watch

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
1x AN/AAQ-14 Targeting Pod, 211.5 kg
2x AIM-9M Sidewinder, 91 kg
2x AIM-120B AMRAAM, 150.7 kg
2x AIM-7M Sparrow, 230 kg
2x GBU-12 Paveway II 500lb LGB, 227 kg
2x 610gal Fuel Tank, ~ 2000 kg

Total: 211.5 211.5 91 150.7 * 2 * 2 230 * 2 227 * 2 2000 * 2 =

            211.5 +211.5 +182 +301.4 +460 +454 +4000 = 5820.4 kg

Operation Southern Watch

1x AN/AAQ-13 Navigation Pod, 211.5 kg
1x AN/AAQ-14 Targeting Pod, 211.5 kg
2x AIM-9M Sidewinder, 91 kg
4x AIM-120B AMRAAM, 150.7 kg
2x GBU-12 Paveway II 500lb LGB, 227 kg

Total: 211.5 +211.5 +91 * 2 +150.7 * 4 +227 * 2 = 211.5 +211.5 +182 +602.8 +454 = 1661.8 kg

More options for suspension (transition)