From the moment the F-15 first tore into the sky, it had one primary goal: total air superiority.
This meant being punchy yet nimble. It also had to possess strong air-to-ground ability for getting in and out of hot locations and delivering a full complement of bombs.
The Air Force rejected 500 concepts for the fourth-generation fighter before finding the perfect balance.
The final product could fly circles around its contemporary opponent, the MiG-25, which succumbed to the weight and power burden the Air Force rejected.
The F-15 was introduced in 1976 and over its lifetime, as technology improved, the plane improved right with it through modifications and upgrades. This sweet spot has turned it into a unique and unsurpassed modern fighter, which is very much still used by the U.S. and other air forces.
Designed originally starting in 1967, the McDonnell F-15 Eagle had one basic purpose: air superiority.
In total, more than 1,200 F-15s of all variations saw service with several countries; Saudi Arabia, Israel, Japan and others.
How could you not want to get in on this action — not the fastest by a long shot, but by far the most maneuverable aircraft in the skies.
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