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?

I know this isn't directed at my post, since I put the F-14 at #2, but the F-117 really didn't enter service/combat until the tail end of the Cold War..so that's why  I wouldn't include it