The 5 Largest F-15 Fleets in the World & Nations Behind Them

The F-15 Eagle fighter jet, originally developed by McDonnell Douglas, has been a key asset for the U.S. Air Force and other militaries worldwide since the 1970s. 

Here are the countries that have the most F-15s in their military arsenal.

1. United States

The United States Air Force operates the largest fleet of F-15 fighter jets, with 395 currently in service and 102 more on order. The U.S. inventory includes various F-15 variants such as the F-15C, F-15D, F-15E, and the newest F-15EX. 

Since its introduction in 1976, the F-15 has been the USAF’s primary air superiority fighter. These powerful jets have proven their worth in combat, with F-15s achieving 34 of the 37 air-to-air victories during the Persian Gulf War.

2. Saudi Arabia

The Royal Saudi Air Force boasts an impressive 232 F-15s in their fleet. Saudi Arabia’s F-15 variants include the F-15C, F-15D, F-15S, and the advanced F-15SA. 

The kingdom first ordered F-15s in 1978 to replace their aging fighter jets, choosing the F-15 for its superior air defense capabilities over competitors like the F-5 and F-16.

3. Japan

Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force operates a total of 199 F-15s. These include the domestically produced F-15J and the two-seat training variant, the F-15DJ. As of 2008, Japan had 157 F-15Js and 45 F-15DJs in active service.

4. Israel

The Israeli Air Force has been flying F-15s since 1977 and currently has 86 F-15s in their inventory, including the F-15A, F-15B, F-15C, F-15D, and the advanced F-15I variants. Israel’s F-15s are organized into two squadrons of F-15A/B/C/Ds and one squadron of F-15Is.

The IAF’s F-15s have an impressive combat record, achieving over 100 aerial victories without a single loss.

5. South Korea

The Republic of Korea Air Force operates 59 F-15K “Slam Eagle” fighters, a variant specifically designed for South Korea’s needs. These advanced jets are part of the 11th Fighter Wing based at Daegu Air Base.

Other F-15 Operators

Several other countries have F-15s in their military fleets, although in smaller numbers compared to the top operators:

• Singapore: 40 F-15SG variants
• Qatar: 33 F-15QAs, with 36 more on order
• Indonesia: 1 F-15 with 24 F-15IDN variants on order

F-15 Specifications & Combat Record

The F-15 Eagle is a formidable fighter jet, powered by two engines that allow it to reach speeds up to Mach 2.5. Its advanced radar and avionics give the F-15 a significant advantage in aerial combat.

The jet’s armaments include Sparrow, Sidewinder, and AMRAAM missiles, as well as a 20mm cannon.

One of the most impressive aspects of the F-15 is its perfect combat record. Since 2007, F-15s have achieved over 100 aerial victories (ref) without suffering a single loss.

The F-15 Eagle: A Dominant Force in the Skies

The F-15 Eagle has proven itself to be one of the most capable and successful fighter jets in modern military history.

The United States, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Israel, and South Korea have invested heavily in the F-15, recognizing its ability to secure air superiority and defend their nations’ interests.

In a world where air power plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability, the F-15 Eagle stands as a symbol of strength and reliability. As long as nations continue to prioritize air superiority, the F-15 will likely remain a key component of their military strategies.