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What do you think is the best fighter aircraft to enter service post-Vietnam up to the fall of the Berlin Wall? Any Country.
F-15, undoubtedly the most effective air superiority platform ever built. At least until the F-22 enters service .
Wow, everyone is going American. So none of the Soviet or European aircraft could hold a candle to ours? What about some of the SAABs or Mirage?
Wow, everyone is going American. So none of the Soviet or European aircraft could hold a candle to ours? What about some of the SAABs or Mirage?
Given the parameters of the post (1975 to 1991), I think I was being objective.The SAAB, Mirage, and MiGs of that era were totally outclassed by the USAF/USN aircraft, plus the superior training of the crews...JMHO
I will say that I agree that the F-15 was probably the best fighter aircraft in the post-Vietnam era, even to include the A/G F-15E Strike Eagle. The F-16, while a capable airframe, has just had too much mission added to its small frame. Developed under the lightweight fighter program, much of the electronic hardware was not included in the airframe. I believe that is why the Navy chose the F-17 soon to become the F-18 during the F-16/F-17 flyoff. Then the Navy now has their F/A-18E Super Hornet and recently EA-18 Growler to replace the EA-6 Prowler.So then what are your reasons not to include the F-117 or F-14?
So then what are your reasons not to include the F-117 or F-14?
Could you really consider the F-117 a fighter? I cant think of an air superiority role for it, too slow, not maneuverable enough. I would say that the F-117 is more of a stealthy ground support/suppression/lightbomber than a fighter aircraft.
Where do FB-111's stand in all this? I worked on them when stationed at Plattsburg AFB (which is now closed)
I didn't add that one since it was actually used During Vietnam. Otherwise you could add the F-4, A-6 and others.
The F-4 Phantom was the greatest fighter platform of the Vietnam Era IMHO. I also have a soft spot for the F-105 Thunderchief. Both could take a pounding while en route to deliver their payloads of death.
The F-4 was great only after the gun installed -E model
The thing I think that made it the most effective was its distinctive loud roar/scream as it approached its target. The Vietcong were utterly terrified of the sound because they knew what was coming. Psychologically, the F-4 was a tremendous asset for the USAF.
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