McDonnell Douglas YF-15A-1-MC Eagle, 71-0280, with McDonnell Douglas RF-4C Phantom II chase plane, in flight near Edwards AFB. (U.S. Air Force)
The first preproduction F-15A air superiority fighter from McDonnell Douglas flew its maiden flight July 27, 1972. The aircraft was evaluated at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., and it was delivered for operational use before 1976. In its prime, the F-15 Eagle would dominate the sky. (Courtesy photo)