Heritage Archives - Page 4 of 110

F-15E with unique air-to-air kill surpasses 15,000 flight hours during combat mission

Posted on July 10, 2024July 10, 2024 by alert5

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, tail number #89-0487 and nicknamed “Lucky,” has achieved a remarkable feat, surpassing 15,000 flight hours during a combat sortie on May 17. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone for this Strike Eagle which is the only F-15E credited with an air-to-air kill.

F-15E Strike Eagle aircrew, consisting of a pilot and weapon systems officer, exit the cockpit at an undisclosed location in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, May 17, 2024. The Strike Eagle consists of two aircrew who employ the advanced weapon system’s radar, electronic warfare sensors, and traditional weapons loadouts. (U.S. Air Force photo)

The Red Muffler: More than just a fashion statement for South Korean Air Force pilots

Posted on July 3, 2024 by alert5

This YouTube video dives into the fascinating story behind the red muffler, a symbol synonymous with South Korean Air Force pilots. While the image might conjure pilots soaring through the skies with a red scarf flowing behind them, the reality is a bit more nuanced.

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42nd anniversary of the F-16XL’s first flight

Posted on July 3, 2024 by alert5

Today marks the 42nd anniversary of the first flight of the F-16XL, a unique prototype fighter jet that never quite reached its full potential. Developed by General Dynamics as a variant of the iconic F-16 Fighting Falcon, the F-16XL boasted a distinctive “cranked-arrow” delta wing design promising increased range and improved ground attack capabilities.

USAF, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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8th Fighter Squadron honors stealthy past with F-16 “Black Sheep” flagship

Posted on July 3, 2024July 3, 2024 by alert5

The 8th Fighter Squadron (FS) at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, recently unveiled a striking new addition to their fleet – an F-16 Viper flagship painted in a sleek matte black color scheme, reminiscent of the legendary F-117 Nighthawk. This unique paint job serves as a powerful tribute to the squadron’s history and the groundbreaking capabilities of the retired stealth aircraft.

An F-16 Viper assigned to the 8th Fighter Squadrons flies over Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, June 6, 2024. The squadron’s new flagship honors the F-117 Nighthawk, which was flown by the 8th FS for over 25 years. (Courtesy photo)

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ROKAF McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II retirement ceremony

Posted on June 18, 2024 by alert5

The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) held a meticulously planned ceremony on Friday, Jun. 7th, at Suwon Air Base to bid farewell to its legendary F-4 Phantom fighter jets after an impressive 55-year service record. Nicknamed “Dokkaebi” (Korean goblin) for their versatility, the Phantoms were revered as guardians of South Korean skies.

Alert5, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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