Fighter Aircraft
McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle
The McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle is a twin-engine air superiority fighter built in the United States, in USAF service since 1979 in the C/D versions. It is frequently credited with 104 air-to-air victories against no air-to-air losses.
United States|McDonnell Douglas (Boeing)What Is the McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle? Overview, History and Development
The F-15 was designed by McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis. The F-15A first flew on 27 July 1972 and entered USAF service in 1976, with the C and D models following in 1979. Two P&W F100-PW-220 engines give it a top speed of about Mach 2.5. It carries a 20 mm M61A1 cannon, AIM-7, AIM-9 and AIM-120 missiles, and an AN/APG-63 radar, upgraded to the V1 or V3 on later jets. It is a fourth-generation fighter and not stealthy.
About 1,198 F-15A to D aircraft were built from 1972 to 1985, including Japanese production by Mitsubishi. The record of 104 victories to zero losses is frequently cited, mostly from USAF jets in Desert Storm in 1991, when F-15Cs shot down Iraqi MiG-29s and Mirage F1s. The USAF is retiring the F-15C/D as the F-15EX arrives, with first jets leaving between 2022 and 2026, and Air National Guard units still fly some. Japan has about 200 F-15J/DJ, and Saudi Arabia operates about 70 F-15C/D.
McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle Specifications: Speed, Range, Engines and Armament
McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle Variants and Versions Compared
The F-15A/B were the original single-seat and two-seat Eagles that entered USAF service in 1976.
The F-15C/D, from 1979, added more fuel, a better radar and newer missiles and became the main air superiority version.
The F-15J is the Japanese licence-built version flown by the JASDF.
Which Countries Use the McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle? Operators and Users
United States
Japan
Saudi ArabiaMcDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle FAQ: Price, Range, Operators and Most Asked Questions
How fast is the F-15 Eagle?
The F-15C/D Eagle has a top speed of about Mach 2.5. Its combat radius is about 1,967 km, and its service ceiling is about 19,800 m.
What is the F-15 Eagle’s combat record?
The F-15 Eagle is frequently credited with 104 air-to-air victories and no air-to-air losses. Most of those came from USAF jets during Desert Storm in 1991.
Which countries use the F-15C/D Eagle?
The United States, Japan and Saudi Arabia operate the F-15C/D Eagle. Japan flies about 200 F-15J/DJ, and Saudi Arabia operates about 70 F-15C/D in addition to F-15S aircraft.
Is the USAF retiring the F-15C/D?
Yes, the USAF is retiring the F-15C/D progressively as the F-15EX arrives, with the first jets leaving service between 2022 and 2026. Some Air National Guard units still fly them, and the end-of-2026 status is uncertain.
F-15 vs Su-27: which is better?
The F-15 Eagle has a strong combat record and an advanced radar, while the Su-27 is more agile in close combat. They never fought directly, so comparisons depend on version and pilot training.
Which Arab countries use the F-15C/D?
Saudi Arabia is the Arab operator of the F-15C/D Eagle, with about 70 aircraft. The Royal Saudi Air Force also flies the F-15S strike version.
