Strike Eagle in Afterburner

The first F-15 destined for an active combat squadron was delivered in 1976. Five years later the USAF announced the Enhanced Tactical Fighter Program to procure a replacement for the F-111 'Ardvark.' The Air Force envisioned an aircraft capable of launching deep interdiction missions without requiring additional support in the form of fighter escort or jamming support. The Air Force chose the McDonnell Douglas' F-15E Strike Eagle over the General Dynamics F-16XL.