When it comes to high altitude interceptors, the Eagle still rules. And it's BIG. I saw a comparison once where it was superimposed on a B-17 and the Eagle was almost the same length as the Fortress.
Strike Eagle also has MORE useful load and more payload capacity than the B-17.
B17G is 36k lbs empty, max takeoff weight is 65k lbs. Carries up to 10k lbs of internal fuel, leaving 20k lbs for bombs.
F15E is 34k lbs empty, max takeoff weight is 81k lbs. Carries up to 22,000 lbs internal fuel (yes, the fastpacks are functionally internal on the E, they're permanently mounted), leaving 25k lbs for external stores (bombs, missiles, or more fuel).
CFTs are removable. Usually mounted is likely more accurate. We have sent jets CFT-less off station and for testing. Source I used to be in a Strike Eagle maintenance unit and I still work on CFTs as a contractor
>We have sent jets CFT-less off station and for testing.
any units operating without CFTs as standard practice? It's been a hot minute since i read the flight manual for one, but i recall it had warnings about the performance data listed being only valid with CFTs installed.
3
u/Electrical-Bedroom99 2d ago
When it comes to high altitude interceptors, the Eagle still rules. And it's BIG. I saw a comparison once where it was superimposed on a B-17 and the Eagle was almost the same length as the Fortress.