Having been an Eagle Admirer since living within cycling distance of an active F-15 base as a teenager, I was pleased to finally see the very first one, and in its original F-15 Joint Test Force livery too. Also dubbed YF-15A, its test flying days ran from July 1972 to November 1975. It was later used as an exhibit by the Air Force Orientation Group and also on display here as the Desert Storm MiG killer 85-0114/EG, but rightfully restored.

This is the first F-15 prototype, now properly restored by the museum in its authentic original prototype markings. This was previously falsely marked as 85-0114/EG. It is one of the 31 aircraft on display at the Lackland parade field.

date range is an estimate

The first F-15 prototype during its first flight from Edwards AFB. Photo from: McDonnell Douglas

RATS33

Built as KC-135A (Pratt & Whitney J57s engines), rebuilt to KC-135E (re-engined with Pratt & Whitney TF33-PW-102) and later to KC-135R (re-engined with CFM56 engines). This old lady is still (late 2021) operational with the 336th Aerial Refueling Squadron.

The aircraft is a former Combat Lightning jet from Vietnam era. The small aerials along the top of the fuselage were retained for years after the mission relay equipment was removed. Photographer: Robert Archer

Photo via Lionel Paul

336th ARS, 452nd AMW, AFRES. Named 'Wild Thang' at the time with nose art of a dog on the port side.