UPDATE: The Air Force has officially launched test flights of its groundbreaking F-15 “Streak Eagle” at Grand Forks Air Force Base today, January 5, 1975, in a bold attempt to shatter multiple world time-to-climb records. With ambitious goals set for next week, this event marks a significant milestone in aviation history, utilizing a specially modified fighter jet designed to achieve extraordinary heights.
The F-15, valued at $7.5 million, is equipped with a thrust-to-weight ratio exceeding one-to-one, allowing it to take off with astounding speed—like a rocket. Today’s flights, which began in the early morning, included a familiarization mission led by Maj. David W. Peterson, followed by a test flight from Maj. W. R. Macfarlane later in the day. While no official records were set during these initial flights, Air Force officials reported that they reached impressive altitudes in less time than required to establish records across several categories.
The F-15 is targeting eight world records, including five currently held by U.S. Phantoms and three by Soviet Foxbats. Today’s test flights were the 47th and 48th missions in a series that has been ongoing since the aircraft’s arrival at the base last month, flown in from Edwards Air Force Base in California.
According to Maj. Macfarlane, the aircraft’s high maneuverability sets it apart, stating, “It’s easy to run out of superlatives when you speak of the F-15.” He likened the performance of the F-15 to that of an exotic fuel dragster compared to a family sedan, emphasizing its capability for aerial dominance.
The F-15’s tests were conducted in optimal conditions at Grand Forks, which is known for its extreme cold that enhances engine performance. On the day of the flight, temperatures hovered around 18 degrees, with ideal conditions being closer to zero. This environment allows the aircraft to reach altitudes of 100,000 feet in record time, crucial for the upcoming attempts.
In a groundbreaking move, the F-15 utilized a new hold-back device during its flight, enabling the engines to operate at full power without the need for brakes, significantly enhancing acceleration. The aircraft achieved a takeoff speed of approximately 130 mph, climbing steeply at an impressive angle of 60 degrees.
During the flights, the jet appeared to ascend vertically against the clear blue sky, captivating onlookers as it left a striking white vapor trail. The pilots are preparing for more intense tests, which will aim for altitudes beyond 50,000 feet, requiring specialized pressurized suits.
Maj. Roger J. Smith, one of the test pilots, confirmed that the tests are designed to evaluate the aircraft’s handling capabilities at high altitudes and low speeds. “We’ve seen everything we expected to see so far,” he stated, reflecting the confidence in the aircraft’s performance.
The upcoming record attempts are set to continue this week, with the Air Force poised to make history. As preparations intensify, the aviation world watches closely, anticipating what could be a landmark achievement in the realm of military aviation.
This series of test flights represents the latest phase in a program that began in July 1972, with the United States currently holding records for altitudes of 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 thousand meters, while the Soviet Union holds records for higher altitudes. The stakes are high, and the potential for breaking significant records has ignited excitement among aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Stay tuned for further updates as the F-15 “Streak Eagle” embarks on this historic journey to redefine the limits of flight.
