Infrared Search And Track Pods Spotted On USAF F-15 Eagles Based In Japan
The long-awaited arrival of infrared search and track pods represents a big capability boost for Kadena Air Base’s F-15s.
The long-awaited arrival of infrared search and track pods represents a big capability boost for Kadena Air Base’s F-15s.
The F-15’s new Infrared Search and Track pod has just proved its ability to provide targeting data needed to make a long-range missile kill.
When operating from a small airstrip surrounded by hostile forces, there is a good way to get into the air and survive to land once again.
A new datalink in the IRST pod not only boosts accuracy but could serve as a future communications pathway.
Flying autonomously alongside an F-16, the drone now has a large serpentine air intake and what appears to be an infrared search and track sensor.
The Air Force just took delivery of its first F-15 in 17 years, and that’s a very exciting thing.
The plan isn’t for the jet to drop a full load of smart bombs on enemy targets, but to carry its own reloads and spare bombs for stealth jets.
The flight comes nearly 50 years after the F-15A first flew. This latest Eagle iteration is set to replace the USAF’s F-15C/D fleet, and maybe more.
Aircraft have their own unique personalities. One F-15 Eagle, in particular, had an especially ‘colorful’ disposition and history, to say the least.
The jet’s landing gear malfunctioned and it had to refuel with its gear down multiple times as a plan to safely ditch its ordnance came together.