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F-4EJ Kai Phantom II

2024-01-01T20:14:31Z

U24824785: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = Japanese jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4ej_kai
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (known as F-4EJ改) was one of the cornerstone of the JASDF based on previous F-4EJs manufactured in Japan; as the airframe and avionics started to become obsolete by early 1980s, MHI and JASDF planned for the upgrades for the fleet of Phantoms with new controls, navigation systems and pulse-doppler radar. After the budget was passed, 90 of these jets were then converted into F-4EJ Kai standards and served JASDF for the next 3 decades until their ultimate decommission in 2021 from ADTW of JASDF.

Introduced in [[Update "Direct Hit"]] as one of the earliest jets to receive PD radar in future updates, F-4EJ Kai introduced enhanced avionics for the already obsolete airframe of F-4EJ while retaining its combat capabilities against future jets or bombarding enemy ground target with high bomb payload. But be sure plan ahead for any assaults and avoid dogfights with other jets since hit-and-run greatly enhance the survivability of the jet.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,255 || 2,221 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 141.6 || 131.6 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,419 || 2,340 || 25.6 || 26.0 || 204.3 || 172.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 580 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-17 || 2
| colspan="2" | 13,965 kg || colspan="2" | 403 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,724 kg || 17,787 kg || 19,829 kg || 24,000 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,200 kgf || 8,008 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.67
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,200 kgf (0 km/h) || 10,170 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.29 || 1.14 || 1.03 || 0.85
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}


* 8.5 mm of Steel below the cockpit.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|JM61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, belly-mounted (640 rpg)
** 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon + 90 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="13" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[GAU-4 (20 mm)|20 mm GAU-4]] cannons (1,200 rpg)
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 5 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 57 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 57
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7E Sparrow]] missiles
| || || || 1* || 1* || || 1* || 1* || || ||
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || || || 1* || 1* || || 1* || 1* || || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9P Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 1, 2 || || || || || || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,400 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * AIM-7E and AIM-7F Sparrow missiles cannot be mixed, only one type may be equipped across hardpoints
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 2 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-7E Sparrow missiles
* 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 3 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 3,600 total)
* 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
* 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (12,000 lb total)
* 17 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (12,750 lb total)
* 285 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 60 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Eased up modifications over the F-4EJ
** Comes with 2 x AIM-9Ps stock instead of 2 x AIM-9Bs
** 4 x AIM-9Ps is a tier I mod without the need of AIM-9Es
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
** Powerful AIM-7F SARH missiles, with very long range, manoeuvres straight off the rails and have 25G of max overload
** Top-of-the-line AIM-9L missiles, having excellent manoeuvrability of 30G, long range, great all-aspect tracking, and being pretty flare resistant when firing rear-aspect
** Can carry 8 missiles in total, even better than many jets at top tier
* Deadly frontal armament with high burst mass
* Makes use of a ballistic computer for assisting in the aim of cannons, rockets, and bombs against ground targets
* Large reserve of countermeasures
* AN/APG-66 radar - has diverse scan and tracking modes, very high resistance to notching and chaff, very long range

'''Cons:'''

* Limited ammunition in the frontally-mounted cannon
* Lacks guided ordnance, limiting ground attack ability
* Terrible manoeuvrability along with mediocre acceleration and top speed, particularly compared to common opponents
** Doesn't have an Agile Eagle package like the F-4E and F-4F to increase manoeuvrability

== History ==

Since the introduction of the Mitsubishi F-4EJ in 1968, it had been one of the cornerstones of the JASDF along with the F-104J and then later F-15J/DJ; but being a jet from the mid-1960s with inferior avionics and armaments to the latest Soviet jets also meant an extensive upgrade for the fleet of EJs was required. The plans for upgrading the 90 MHI-built F-4EJs which were still airworthy started in 1981 and the first retrofitted jet (07-8431) took to the skies in July 1984 and joined the JASDF in December. Upgrades included:

* Installation of J/AYK-1 guidance system for AShM and unguided bombs
* Replacing AN/APQ-120 with the latest AN/APG-66J with pulse-Doppler capabilities; J/AVQ-3 radar display and guidance system for SARH AAMs
* New J/ASN-4 digital INS navigation system
* New Kaiser Electronics HUD
* J/APR-6 RWR, AN/APX-76A IFF, and AN/ALQ-131 countermeasures
* HOTAS controls
* Lightning rods by the radome
* New fuel tanks

These features passed for the budgets of FY1987 and the upgrades for these jets finished by 1990.

By the time F-15J/DJs and F-2s joined the JASDF in larger quantities, F-4EJs (including the recon variant, RF-4EJ) were starting to retire. On 17 March, 2021, the very last 3 F-4EJ (Kai)s of the JASDF (17-8301[4038], [[F-4EJ ADTW|47-8336]][M036] and 07-8431[M131]) retired from the Air Development and Test Wing (ADTW) in Gifu Airbase, Nagoya, bidding farewell of Phantoms in JASDF service. <ref>https://theaviationist.com/2021/03/17/japans-last-three-f-4ej-phantoms-have-just-flown-for-the-last-time/</ref>

{{notice|'''07-8431 (EJ Kai)''' and '''17-8301 (the very first JASDF EJ)''' were also used for the sampling of the in-game representation of this jet as the developers and DMM announced for a trip to Gifu before their ultimate decommission.<ref>https://warthunder.dmm.com/news/detail/8612</ref>}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4ej_kai Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

{{Skin-gallery|market|ugcitem_1001078|F-4EJ_Kai_37-8315.jpg|Camo "''Go For It!''"|market|ugcitem_1001158|F-4EJ Kai 77-8399.png|Camo "''50th Anniversary JSDF''"|market|ugcitem_1001276|F-4EJ 37-8322.jpg|Camo "''Good Bye Okinawa''"}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]
** [[F-4EJ Phantom II]]

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-21 (Family)]]
* SAAB [[J35D]] Draken
* Dassault [[Mirage IIIC]]

== External links ==


* [https://archive.org/details/t.o.1f4c1flightmanualf4cf4df4e01101970/mode/2up/ Technical Order 1F-4C-1 - Flight Manual for F-4C/F-4D/F-4E Aircraft]

{{Manufacturer MHI}}
{{Japan jet aircraft}}
<references />

F-15J

2024-01-01T19:59:36Z

U24824785: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=f_15j
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a variant of the American [[F-15A|F-15 ''Eagle'']] customized for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and produced under a licensing agreement with the United States, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries taking the lead in manufacturing. The F-15J, which entered service in the early 1980s, was designed to replace Japan's ageing fleet of [[F-104J|F-104J ''Eiko'']]s and [[F-4EJ|F-4EJ ''Phantom'']]s. This twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter featured advanced radar and avionics for long-range engagement. The aircraft's design emphasized air-to-air combat capabilities, featuring a mix of short and medium-range missiles, the AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-7 Sparrow respectively, on top of the domestic [[AAM-3]] missile.

Introduced in [[Update "Air Superiority"]], the F-15J is the crown jewel of the Japanese air tree. This translates to a very fast dedicated air superiority fighter, that is surprisingly nimble for such a heavy machine. It remains a very capable jet even when compared to its competition like the [[Su-27]] and the [[JAS39A|JAS39 Gripen]]. It is also the only plane featuring the AAM-3 domestic Japanese missile in-game.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The F-15J is a heavy aircraft, but quite nimble for its size. It can pull surprisingly well for its weight and size. Caution should be taken between Mach 1.0 and 1.1, as a combination of elevator, rudder, and aileron deflection will easily rip the wings. It pulls very hard around 800 km/h IAS.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 10,668 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,534 || 2,505 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.5 || 22.7 || 262.6 || 248.2 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,657 || 2,592 || 21.3 || 21.9 || 361.6 || 310.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,629  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 548 || 481 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Ishikawa-Harima F100-IHI-100 || 2
| colspan="2" | 12,940 kg || colspan="3" | 337 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 40m fuel
|-
| 1,470 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 14,770 kg || 15,966 kg || 17,479 kg || 19,039 kg || 28,920 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 40m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 6,140 kgf || 8,510 kgf
| 1.15 || 1.07 || 0.97 || 0.89 || 0.59
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,061 kgf (1,629 km/h) || 13,939 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.89 || 1.75 || 1.59 || 1.46 || 0.96
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

The F-15 was designed with a focus on survivability. It can often survive non-direct missile hits and still be operational enough to land, compared to an [[F-16 (Family)|F-16]] or a [[Mirage 2000 (Family)|Mirage 2000]] which cannot fly well with damaged wings. The F-15 has no armour protection, but the high capacity of countermeasures (240) helps with decoying incoming missiles.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|JM61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (940 rpg)
* 240 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="11" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-15A.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 ||
|-
! [[AAM-3]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-7M Sparrow]] missiles
| || || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9M Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! 610 gal drop tanks
| || 1* || || || || 1 || || || || 1* ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 5,448 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,000 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Wing-mounted drop tanks must be equipped together
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 3 x 610 gal drop tanks
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AAM-3 missiles
* 4 x AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
* 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 3 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 9 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

The F-15J has very basic armament loadouts. It gets access to some of the best IR missiles in-game, the AAM-3, which performs like an improved version of the famous [[AIM-9M]]. In terms of SARH missiles, the [[AIM-7M Sparrow|AIM-7M]] are the only possible missiles.

In terms of air-to-ground ordnance, the F-15J has three hardpoints that can carry up to 3 x 2,000 lb bombs, up to 18 x 500 lb bombs, or up to 9 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs.

The F-15J also has access to up to three drop tanks.

== Usage in battles ==

The F-15J is a top-tier aircraft that can punch above its weight. It is a big and heavy aircraft, with all of the features a competitive top-tier jet needs for air-to-air combat. It gets access to eight air-to-air missiles in total, a good amount of flares, and a good flight model.

One might think the F-15J would be bad at dogfighting, however, due to its design it can fight surprisingly well for such a big plane. It can have a hard time against planes that can pull a lot of AOA (Angle of Attack) like the [[Su-27]], or the [[JAS39A|JAS 39]], however, due to the powerful engines of the F-15J, such enemies will have a hard time keeping up with the Eagle in the long run.

The F-15's flight model can be compared to a combination of an F-4 and an F-16. It is a brick, like the F-4, however it turns extremely well under the right circumstances, like an F-16.

* The F-15J does not have a lot of playstyles due to its limitations. It should be used as a "Boom-And-Zoom" plane. the F-15J should never be inside the "furball" that forms in the first minutes of the match, however, the pilot of the F-15 should be ready at any moment after the formation of the "furball" be ready to speed towards it to launch some AAM-3 and maybe AIM-7M missiles. After passing through the furball and dodging incoming missiles, the pilot should keep their energy up, and go back again to try and destroy some more targets. It is also possible to grab 12 x 500 lbs bombs to destroy one base for some extra RP and SL, and then proceed to fight the enemy planes. Generally, 40 minutes of total fuel is enough for a match of Air Realistic battles. Each drop tank has around 11 minutes of fuel.
* The F-15J can be a good interceptor in Ground Realistic battles, however, it is outclassed by the [[F-16AJ]] due to its access to [[AGM-65B]].

The F-15J is quite a specialized aircraft, tailor-made for the air superiority role due to its armament. It is a competitive jet that has its quirks and few compromises, but it is very scary in the hands of a good pilot.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very high thrust-to-weight ratio, allowing very high acceleration, rapid climbing and dogfight endurance
* High amount of countermeasures (240) allowing it to decoy missiles reliably
* AAM-3 missiles, akin to an improved AIM-9M with better turning capability and better range
* High amount of fuel, providing ~18 minutes of afterburning time
* multiple high capacity drop tanks, so is possible to have large amount of fuel for afterburner while keeping fuel on board low for better manoeuvrability after dropping the tanks if needed
* Good manoeuvrability for such a big and heavy jet fighter
* High ammo capacity for cannon

'''Cons:'''

* Heavyweight
* The cannon is placed quite far away to the right, which makes aiming tricky
* No HMD for radar or missiles, no TWS mode for radar
* No guided air-to-ground armament
* Tends to compress at speeds above Mach 1
* large size makes it easier to hit for cannon

== History ==

The '''F-15J ''Eagle''''', a cornerstone of Japan's air defence, represents a pivotal chapter in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's (JASDF) history. This twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter, a variant of the American McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle, emerged from Japan's strategic need to modernize its air capabilities in the 1970s. During this period, Japan was in the process of phasing out its ageing fleet of [[F-104J]] Starfighters and [[F-4EJ Phantom II]]s. After a thorough evaluation of various options, including the [[F-14 (Family)|F-14 ''Tomcat'']] and [[F-16 (Family)|F-16 ''Fighting Falcon'']], the JASDF settled on the F-15 Eagle, primarily for its unmatched air superiority.

The journey of the F-15J began with a landmark agreement in 1978 between Japan and the United States, allowing Japan to produce the fighter under license. This decision was more than a mere procurement choice; it was a strategic manoeuvre aimed at bolstering Japan's domestic aerospace industry. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was entrusted with the manufacturing, marking a significant step in Japan's post-war industrial and defence capabilities. The initial batch of F-15Js was assembled in the United States and then shipped to Japan for final assembly, but subsequent units were wholly constructed in Japan, showcasing the country's growing technical prowess.

The F-15J was tailored to meet specific Japanese requirements. It incorporated indigenous electronic warfare systems, radar, and other avionics, distinguishing it from its American counterpart. However, in line with Japan's defence-oriented policy, certain features like in-flight refuelling were initially left out.

Inducted into service in 1982, the F-15J swiftly became the backbone of Japan's air superiority. Over the years, it underwent several upgrades, enhancing its radar, avionics, and weapon systems to keep pace with global technological advancements. The F-15J's role extended beyond mere hardware; it was integral in joint training exercises with the United States and other allies, honing the JASDF's tactical capabilities and ensuring interoperability.

A key aspect of the F-15J's operational history is its role in air defence. Tasked with safeguarding Japan's airspace, it has been routinely scrambled to intercept foreign military aircraft, particularly Russian and Chinese, near Japanese territory. However, in alignment with Japan's post-World War II pacifist constitution, the F-15J has not been engaged in active combat. Its use has been strictly limited to defensive and deterrence missions.

Looking to the future, Japan has initiated an ambitious modernization program for its F-15J fleet. This program aims to equip the fighters with advanced electronics, radar systems, and the ability to carry more sophisticated weaponry. Yet, as the defence landscape evolves, discussions about the F-15J's role in Japan's future air defence strategy continue, with potential transitions to newer platforms like the F-35 Lightning II being considered.

== Media ==

''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{Manufacturer MHI}}
{{Japan jet aircraft}}

IJN Mikuma

2023-12-31T21:09:30Z

U24824785: /* Pros and cons */ added the 155 cannons lack of penetration and damage to combat heavily armour ship, and the relaence of torpedoes as Cons

{{About
| about = premium Japanese light cruiser '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other Mogami-class cruisers
| link = Mogami (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=jp_cruiser_mogami_mikuma
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_003.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_005.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The second of the Mogami-class cruisers, the Mikuma (三隈, [[Abbreviations#.28JP.29_Naval|namesake]]: Mikuma River) was designed as a heavy cruiser right from the start but, due to restrictions from the London Naval Treaty, the Imperial Japanese Navy mounted turrets with 155 mm guns in order to pass it off as a light cruiser. That the turrets were easy to remove and replace and that there were a number of 20 cm turrets lying around in storage that would perfectly fit into the ships was considered a convenient coincidence.

Mikuma was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]] purchasable in-game with Golden Eagles {{ge}}. It was included in a [[wt:en/news/7087-shop-new-packs-and-a-unique-bundle-en|premium pack]] in March 2021, but it was removed from the store after the [[wt:en/news/7417-shop-war-thunder-birthday-sale-in-gaijin-net-store-en|9th Anniversary Sale]]. Compared to her tech-tree counterpart, the [[IJN Suzuya|Suzuya]], Mikuma's only two difference is that she features slightly more crew (958 vs. 918), and that she carries one less scout plane in her visual model (3 vs 4 on Suzuya), although only two can be launched from both ships. As the Mogami-class were built around high top speed and firepower, the Mikuma's lighter armaments result in improved mobility while having the same protection as her heavier-armed sister [[IJN Mogami|Mogami]].

== General info ==
=== Survivability and armour ===

{{Specs-Fleet-Armour}}
Being essentially a heavy cruiser with light cruiser guns, the Mikuma is generally well-protected. Mikuma's citadel is protected with ~100 mm of RHA at the belt, 65 mm at the angled top, and 35 mm at the deck, which is strong enough to bounce several shots at longer range especially when angled. Her magazine, which sat on the waterline, is even better-protected with 140 mm at the belt and 40 mm at the deck. While most of her modest 951 crewmembers were packed inside her midship section, angling the ship will mitigate the issue and make them less vulnerable.

Unfortunately, since the Mikuma was designed with the emphasis on high offensive capabilities and good mobility, some compromises were required to achieve the goal. The Mikuma, as with the other IJN cruisers, has very poor turret and shell elevator protection. With a measly 25 mm of armour plate, Mikuma's guns can be easily disabled even by an average destroyer-calibre guns. Additionally, Mikuma's greatest strength of having numerous Type 93 "Long Lance" torpedoes at her disposal is also her greatest weakness as half of the 24 "Long Lance" are stored just nearby the torpedo tubes, essentially acting as an ammo racks that can be detonated and cause severe damage to the ship.

=== Mobility ===

{{Specs-Fleet-Mobility}}
Despite her massive size and displacement, the Mikuma is tied with her sister ship [[IJN Suzuya|Suzuya]] and a smaller [[IJN Isuzu|Isuzu]] as the second fastest cruiser in the game (after a much smaller "scout cruiser" [[RN Attilio Regolo|Attilio Regolo]]) at 78 km/h (AB) or 67 km/h (RB). Owning to powerful 10 Kampon boilers powered four propeller shafts with 152,000 horsepower. With her high top speed, the Mikuma is capable of out-pacing almost every cruisers she will face and is able to closing in the gap at a faster rate.

However, due to the large size and displacement, the Mikuma is quite slow to decelerate and slugglsh to handle at times. This can be detrimental, especially when it comes to dodging torpedoes and mines.

{{NavalMobility}}

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armament ==
{{Specs-Fleet-Armaments}}
=== Primary armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Primary}}

{{main|155 mm/60 3rd Year Type (155 mm)}}

Mikuma's main armament consists of 15 x 155 mm/60 3rd Year Type cannons mounted in five triple turrets in A-B-Cs-X-Y setup. Due to the gun's setup, the Mikuma is able to deliver a full salvo at a steep 60 degrees angle, thus increasing the ship's protection effectiveness.

The 155 mm guns have three shell choice; a rudimentary HE shell with 3.39 kg of TNT equivalent, an APHEBC shell with high penetration (131 mm at 10 km) and a sizeable filler of 1.21 kg of TNT equivalent, and a HE-TF shell with the same filler as the HE shell, though is not useful due to the gun's slow reload and traverse. As with other similar guns, both shell has a high shell velocity at 920 m/s and thus were reasonably accurate at all ranges.

The guns have a rather mediocre rate of fire for its calibre at 6 RPM (10 second reload with ace crew) compared to other 150-155 mm guns with 7-8 RPM as baseline. This is made up with the sheer volume of rounds it can deliver for each salvoes, with a well-aimed barrage capable of causing severe damage to the enemy ship.

{{:155 mm/60 3rd Year Type (155 mm)/Ammunition|155 mm Type 0 HE, 155 mm Type 91 APHE, 155 mm Type 0 HE-TF}}

=== Secondary armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Secondary}}

{{main|5 inch/40 Type 89 (127 mm)}}

Mikuma features 8 x 127 mm/40 Type 89 dual-purpose guns in four twin turrets placed around the funnel, which are reasonably effective against coastal boats and destroyers due to fast reload time. As with the main guns, it has two shell choices of a basic HE shell and a HE-TF shell with slightly higher filler but much better shell velocity (910 m/s).

Since Mikuma's dedicated anti-air weapons is quite weak, it is possible to use the 127 mm as a supplementary flak battery. Due to the HE-TF shell's high velocity, it can be surprisingly effective at longer ranges, though its performance gradually decreases as the enemy gets closer than 2 km.

{{:5 inch/40 Type 89 (127 mm)/Ammunition|127 mm HE, 127 mm HE-TF}}

=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-AA}}

{{main|25 mm/60 Type 96 (25 mm)|Type 93 (13.2 mm)}}

The Mikuma's dedicated anti-air armaments consists of 8 x 25 mm Type 96 autocannons and 4 x 13.2 mm Type 93 machine guns, both placed in a twin mounts around the amidship. These AA armaments are quite light for her size and is largely useless beyond 2.5 km range, though it can works well in tandem with the secondary 127 mm guns, a skilled enemy pilot will be able to slip past the defence and attack the ship. Thus, it is always recommended to man the gun yourselves when the enemy gets too close.

=== Additional armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Additional}}

{{main|Type 93 Model 1, Mod 2 (610 mm)}}

The Mikuma features 24 x 610 mm Type 93 Model 1 Mod 2 "Long Lance" torpedoes launched from a pair of triple launchers on each sides of the seaplane catapults. Twelve were pre-loaded inside the launchers, while the other half were stored in ready racks near the launcher. With a large quantities of the dreaded "Long Lance" torpedoes, the Mikuma is capable of sinking several ships at longer ranges (including battleships) and capable of doing so multiple times (especially in Arcade). Although the launchers have a restricted arc and requires showing full broadsides to the enemy, exposing the ship to damage in the process.

However, since the Mikuma is already packed with several heavy weapons, Japanese engineer were unable to put the extra "Long Lance" storages at a safer place. As mentioned in the "Survivability and armour" section, these extra torpedoes are essentially external ammo racks that can be detonated and is detrimental to Mikuma's survival. Thus, it is recommended to unload these torpedoes when playing in a map where torpedoes are less useful, such as maps with numerous islets and covers.

=== Scout plane ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Plane}}

Located amidships are two catapults carrying one E7K2 scout plane each (the E7K2 stored on the trolley is not available) which provides unique offensive and defensive abilities, expanding tactical options. Ship-launched scout planes fly just like regular tree units but lack munition choices and cockpit views. The E7K2 is equipped with only defensive machine gun turrets (ventral as well as dorsal) and carries 4 x 60 kg bombs. It also has the scout plane ability to cap zones and lay down smoke cover (up to 3 times). Captains will be wise to remember to utilize the aircraft and consider when best to use it, for example to cap a point early or late in the match, to create a smoke screen to stymie enemy bombardment and repair, to attack enemy units directly, or perhaps something completely new! Carrying a heavier bomb load than most other scout planes, this unit has a very good chance to sink enemy boats or even a destroyer.

== Usage in battles ==

With a combination of strong protection, large number of 155 mm guns, high top speed, and large amounts of Long Lance torpedoes, the Mikuma is highly versatile in terms of playstyle. The ship is capable to act as a spearhead by getting close to the enemy using its fast top speed and deal high burst damage to quickly dispatch enemy ship, or staying behind as a support and dealing damage using its guns and large number of torpedoes. However, the Mikuma does still suffer from a common weakness of Japanese cruisers, namely the poorly-protected turrets and lacklustre anti-air defence.

A common mistake made by many "heavy light cruiser" players is to venture too deep into the enemy territory due to their fast speed and heavy protection also applies with the Mikuma. To prevent from overextending and exposing yourself as a target in the process, situational awareness is key. Always look at the minimap to make sure you're not getting to close to the enemy, and make sure to find a way to retreat before others notice you. Knowing the type of enemy ships you face is also beneficial as the Mikuma has a high burst damage potential, and knowing where to shoot can also help destroy the enemy faster.

;Enemies worth noting

* [[Brooklyn (Family)|Brooklyn-class]] - While these US light cruisers are similar to the Mikuma in terms of main armament (15 x 152 mm guns), the Brooklyns are more specialized in gunnery compared to the Mikuma, with them sacrificing speed and torpedoes for absurd rate of fire of up to 10 rounds per minute (with an aced crew). The results of a 1-vs-1 fight between both ships were thus often depending on who managed to deal a crippling damage against the other's main turrets first. Mikuma's paper-thin turrets can be easily disabled by a few accurate salvoes, while Brooklyn's has a large magazine sitting way above the waterline that can cause devastating damage if it detonates.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* High top speed for such a large ship (78 (AB)/67 km/h (RB))
* Features the same hull as the [[IJN Mogami|Mogami]] heavy cruiser; able to withstand a fair amount of enemy fire before sinking
* Numerous powerful 155 mm guns (5 turrets with 3 guns each, 15 in total) with good coverage
* 24 Long Lance torpedoes which have the capability to heavily damage battleships and wreck everything else
* Two scout planes

'''Cons:'''

* Poorly-protected main turrets and elevators, very easy to get disabled
* Mediocre anti-air defense, especially at closer ranges
* Wide hull makes evading enemy torpedoes difficult as it takes some time to manoeuvre the ship
* External Long Lance torpedo storages can be detonated when being hit
* Torpedo arcs are limited, have to show almost full broadside to launch torpedoes
* The 155mm guns lack the penetration and damage performance to reliably combat battleship or heavily armour cruiser which Mikuma will face often
* The importance of torpedoes makes Mikuma very map dependent. torpedoes are harder to hit on maps with lots of cover, greatly reduced the potential of Mikuma by making it's most potent weapon ineffective
*

== History ==

[[File:Mikuma1939.jpg|thumb|450x450px|IJN Mikuma as seen in 1939.]]
IJN Mikuma was a ship of the Mogami class of light cruisers, built for the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) during the interwar period. Designed to be converted into heavy cruisers later on, they were the largest and most heavily-armed cruisers ever built until the introduction of the American Brooklyn-class several years later. Mikuma was commissioned in 1935, and converted into a heavy cruiser just before the outbreak of the Second World War. She saw action during the Battle of Sunda strait as well as the Battle of Midway; she was sunk during the latter battle when attacked by American carrier aircraft.

=== Design and development ===
Mikuma was the second of four Mogami-class cruisers. To comply with the Washington Naval Treaty, she was initially classified as a light cruiser with an official displacement of 8,500 tons. However, she was designed from the outset to be refitted with 8-inch (203 mm) guns and made into a heavy cruiser in a later refit. Her main armament consisted of fifteen 6-inch (152 mm) guns in five triple turrets, giving her one of the heaviest broadsides of any Treaty cruiser. She was also fitted with moderate anti-aircraft protection and four triple torpedo tube launchers carrying the deadly Type 93 "Long Lance" torpedoes.

Mikuma's relatively heavy armour and large armament placed extensive strain on the 10,000-ton limit that she was built to comply with. In fact, a British Admiral once quipped that "[The Japanese] are either lying to us or building [the Mogamis] out of cardboard." Indeed, the low displacement gave the Mikuma relatively weak stability, which was improved later on through the addition of large bulges on the sides of the hull. Mikuma was initially launched in 1935, but didn't see active service before the Second World War to enable Japanese engineers to install her bulges and replace her original 6-inch main armament with an improved 6-inch main battery.

=== Operational history ===
After her commissioning, Mikuma was dry docked once again to receive her revised 8-inch main armament; her 6-inch turrets were given to the battleship Yamato. Prior to the start of the Pacific War, Mikuma participated in the occupation of the Indochina area by Japanese forces. Assigned to Cruiser Division 7, she was still in the Southeast Asian theatre at the time of the Pearl Harbour attacks of December 1941.
[[File:Japanese cruiser Mikuma burning and sinking on 6 June 1942 (80-G-457861).jpg|thumb|450x450px|IJN Mikuma shortly before her sinking. Note how her midsection has been completely destroyed by bombs.]]
After the Pearl Harbour attacks, Mikuma covered the invasion of British Borneo. There, she encountered an enemy force attacking Japanese landing personnel, composed of the American cruiser USS Houston and Australian cruiser HMAS Perth. Along with her escorting destroyers and sister ship Mogami, the Japanese force was able to destroy both cruisers quickly. Mikuma herself emerged relatively unscathed, and spent the latter part of early 1942 attacking shipping in the Southeast Asian area.

In June of 1942, Mikuma was one of the escort ships tasked with escorting the Japanese Carrier fleet on the attack on Midway Atoll. However, as they had left later than the rest of the fleet, they lagged behind and the order was given for them to slow down and proceed at a leisurely speed. However, the order was received late, and Mikuma, along with her sister ships Suzuya, Kumano and Mogami, was already within 90 kilometres of Midway atoll. They were spotted by an American submarine, and due to some communication errors, she was rammed by the Mogami. The two ships ended up stuck to each other, and the Japanese crews worked frantically to resolve the collision.

During this time, the two cruisers were attacked by a flight of B-17s from Midway that failed to score any hits. Finally, the ships were unstuck, and Mikuma was headed towards Wake Island when the pair of cruisers were attacked by 31 SBD Dauntless dive-bomber aircraft from the USS Enterprise. Mogami was hit by six bombs that caused severe damage, but managed to limp home. Mikuma was less lucky, having been hit extensively on her forecastle and superstructure by 5 American bombs. Eventually, the fires caused by the bombs caused her torpedoes to explode; this doomed the ship. As a result, the Mikuma was abandoned, and eventually capsized and sank.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=jp_cruiser_mogami_mikuma Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==
''Links to articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


=== References ===

* Budge, K. (2007). Mogami Class, Japanese Heavy Cruisers. Retrieved January 12, 2021, from <nowiki>http://pwencycl.kgbudge.com/M/o/Mogami_class.htm</nowiki>
* Chen, P. C. (2004). Heavy Cruiser Pensacola. Retrieved January 12, 2021, from <nowiki>https://ww2db.com/ship_spec.php?ship_id=39</nowiki>
* Hackett, B., & Kingsepp, S. (1997). IJN Mikuma: Tabular Record of Movement. Retrieved January 12, 2021, from <nowiki>http://www.combinedfleet.com/mikuma_t.htm</nowiki>

{{ShipManufacturer Mitsubishi Shipbuilding}}
{{Japan light cruisers}}
{{Japan premium ships}}

F-104J

2023-12-31T20:51:06Z

U24824785: /* Pros and cons */ edited the numbers of missiles from 4 to 6 to reflect the change in game

{{About
| about = Japanese jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = F-104 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-104j
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', nicknamed 栄光 (Eiko, lit. Glory) or 三菱鉛筆 (Mitsubishi Pencil) by JASDF pilots, was the imported and license-produced F-104G solely for the JASDF as the winner of the F-X program, which sought for new interceptors against Soviet bomber fleets. The F-X project originally opted for a Japanese version of the [[F-100 (Family)|F-100]] from North American Aviation, but this was cancelled due to the lack of need for a fighter-bomber. Later in 1959, after evaluations on supersonic performance of available jets of the era, the JASDF eventually opted to introduce the F-104G but removing ground-attacking equipment from the Starfighter, which in turn became what's known as the F-104J and was produced by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) domestically. As future jets like the F-4EJ and F-15J joined the JASDF between 1970s to 1980s, as well as the infamous reliability of Starfighters both domestically and overseas, the JASDF phased out the fleet of F-104Js after 1986. Some of these jets were supplied to the ROCAF under Project Alishan #9 (阿里山9號計劃) after they returned to USA (F-104Js were property of both the USAF and JASDF), while some were modified into UF-104J target drones for combat training.

Introduced in [[Update "Starfighters"]], the F-104J was the main interceptor of the JASDF with precise ground-attack capabilities removed. Although being known as a jet with poor manoeuvre capabilities at low speed, with its high top-speed and sufficient missile payload, players can certainly cause major troubles to enemy aircraft and enemy attackers/bombers will need to think twice before entering the combat area.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


The F-104J's performance can be summarised in one word: speed. For it to work effectively, you must be fast. Below 1,000 km/h, your elevator will be ineffective for any combat manoeuvres. Though it may be helped by the deployment of combat or takeoff flaps as speed allows, even those will not be able to keep up with the other aircraft it faces at its battle rating. This being said, the aircraft is very responsive overall, especially in the roll aspect.

The short wings must be discussed with some nuance. Though they allow for great roll authority, their effectiveness at low speeds is severely limited. Below 6-800 km/h, you will find that level flight is difficult, if not impossible. Due to this, a very high landing speed is required, which amplifies small mistakes. Even with the perfect pilot, landing this aircraft every time is going to be a challenge.

Finally, the aircraft is only fast in a straight line. When turning, it loses significant speed, often losing any energy advantage it may have had before the turn.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 15,240 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,343 || 2,317 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 34.5 || 35.1 || 230.5 || 222.5 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,431 || 2,387 || 35.5 || 34.0 || 292.0 || 260.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,527  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 827 || 444 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 720 || < 950 || < 800 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-11 || 1
| colspan="2" | 6,552 kg || colspan="3" | 532 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
|-
| 1,615 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 7,345 kg || 8,057 kg || 8,809 kg || 9,194 kg || 24,000 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 4,128 kgf || 6,357 kgf
| 0.87 || 0.79 || 0.72 || 0.69 || 0.26
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 4,128 kgf (0 km/h) || 8,391 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.14 || 1.04 || 0.95 || 0.91 || 0.35
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}


The aircraft has some survivability, although it should be noted that due to its small size, any hits to the rear of the plane are very likely to cause engine damage, which will be problematic due to the horrible gliding ability of this aircraft. The structure, however, makes it difficult to knock out the pilot from behind. Also, due to the high tail structure, it is easy to destroy the tail entirely, which will result in a near-total loss of control. Though the flaps may be utilized to some extent, at lower speeds, they will falter, making it very hard to take a damaged aircraft back to the runway.

When a wing is fully lost, the aircraft will suffer from an extreme roll that may only be countered by using the rudder and remaining aileron simultaneously. At this point, the aircraft is practically impossible to land and should be considered lost.

The plane also has no armour protection.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, nose-mounted (750 rpg)

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="7%" | 1 !! width="7%" | 2 !! width="7%" | 3 !! width="7%" | 4 !! width="7%" | 5 !! width="7%" | 6
| rowspan="6" width="25%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Hydra-70 M247]] rockets
| || 7 || || || 7 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9B Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9E Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9P Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* Without load
* 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
* 14 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


The F-104J is a difficult aircraft to fly and be competitive in, without a doubt. It requires a completely unique set of tactics and manoeuvres that must be utilized without fail, or it will result in a loss. The F-104J should not be intentionally placed in a dogfighting scenario. In the overwhelming majority of situations, you will lose the engagement due to your inferior mobility at all speeds. Though it is possible to do such things, and it is up to the pilot's judgment on whether or not it will work out in a win, it is unlikely to happen. Particularly, there are two situations that the pilot should be aware of.

The first is the reversal. Due to the great manoeuvrability advantage of most other aircraft at your battle rating, you will often find yourself with an enemy aircraft behind you in seconds. If you have the energy advantage, do not panic. Chances are, you can successfully escape. However, if not, you should panic because the enemy will likely fire air-to-air missiles until your speed is sufficiently reduced to either result in a missile or gun kill.

The second is the failure of the classic "boom and zoom" tactic, where the pilot will engage an enemy with less altitude and speed than them and regain their lost altitude after the attack. This will often fail in this aircraft due to the poorer energy retention in a climb and the fact that air-to-air missiles will often engage you. You should wait before the enemy is at a safe distance before resetting your altitude in this situation.

Outside of simply keeping speed up, typically above 1,000 km/h, the plane should fly in a straight line as much as possible, as manoeuvring will bleed speed rapidly and further hinder the aircraft's effectiveness in battle.

Overall, the F-104J can be a serious threat to the enemy when used correctly, though it is easily countered in some situations. The 20 mm cannon can have 750 rounds and a good impact on the target, and its AIM-9P missiles are very effective at killing enemy jets.

=== Radars ===

The F-104J is equipped with a NASARR search and tracking radar. The radar is mounted in the nose of the aircraft.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | NASARR - Target Detection Radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Detection Range|The maximum possible range at which a target can be detected}}
! {{Annotation|Guaranteed Detection Range|The range, below which, detection of a target is practically guaranteed}}
! {{Annotation|Max Azimuth Scan Angle|How far to each side the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
! {{Annotation|Max Elevation Scan Angle|How far up and down the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
|-
| 37,000 m (theoretical) || 18,000 m || ±45.0° || ±43.0°
|-
! colspan="4" | NASARR - Target Tracking Radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
|-
| 18,500 m || 150 m || ±10.0° || ±10.0°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good top speed and acceleration
* Great rate of climb
* Powerful M61 cannon with high fire rate, good damage, excellent velocity, and plenty of ammunition
* Good roll rate
* Can carry a total of 6 potent AIM-9P air-to-air missiles

'''Cons:'''

* Very poor overall maneuverability and terrible maneuverability at low speeds
* Bleeds off airspeed quickly in sustained turns
* Very limited air-to-ground ordnance options (only a small amount of unguided rockets), and no ballistic computer
* Lack of flare/chaff countermeasures is a major handicap as the IR missiles the F-104J commonly faces are extremely difficult for it to dodge without flares

== History ==


The F-104J was a specialized interceptor version of the [[F-104G]] for the {{Annotation|JASDF|Japanese Air Self Defense Force}}, built under license by Mitsubishi for the air-superiority role; it was armed with a cannon and up to six Sidewinders (evidence shows it only ever carrying 4 in active operation) but had no strike capability. Called ''Eiko'' (栄光, Glory) and sometimes nicknamed by pilots as the ''Mitsubishi Pencil'', they served from October 1962 to 1986, losing only 3 airplanes, including a mid-air collision accident. Seven air-superiority squadrons used them: 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207. Japanese F-104s faced intrusive Soviet airplanes during this long service.

;Introduction

With Lockheed gaining ties with the JASDF after introducing the T-33 ''Shooting Star'' trainer-jet for the Japanese Airforce. Considering Japan didn't massively import airplanes from the US and with an upcoming next generation of jet planes that would replace the Japanese F-86s by F-100s from North American Aviation made it quite a competition for Lockheed to sell their product instead.

In 1957 Japan sent a investigation team to the USA to wage their options and viable planes for the task at hand. With the increase of Soviet bombers and their potential threat towards Japan and its airspace, the qualifications of the planes being set at:

'''Speed''' ≥ {{Annotation|Mach 2|2450 km/h; 1522 mph}}
'''Climb rate''' ≥ {{Annotation|15,500 m|~50,000 ft}} within 8 minutes
'''Ceiling''' ≥ {{Annotation|18,000 m|~60,000 ft}}
'''Combat range''' ≥ {{Annotation|380 km|~236 miles}}

4 American jets could meet the requirement, and these were: NAA F-100, Convair F-102, Northrop F-5 and Lockheed F-104. At the time, only the F-100 was proven and in use by the US Air Force, the F-5 was still being designed, the F-104 just made its maiden test flight, and the F-102 was the most expensive. Out of this, it seemed like the easiest and best option would be working with North American Aviation as they already had close ties with Mitsubishi considering they licensed their previous era of jets being the F-86 and announced the proposal of the F-100J, an all-weather interceptor variant with nose-mounted radar especially for the JASDF.

On the 13th of September of the same year, the investigation team returned to Japan and submitted their report, but conclusions weren't specified and postponed. It was rumoured that the F-100J would have a short-run production until a full conclusion was made on which jet Japan's next generation of the air-defence jet would be. Still, this plan was fully taken off the table by the then prime minister, Nobusuke Kishi, which dubbed the F-100J as a "Fighter-Bomber" that Japan's defensive nation didn't need.

In January 1958, the chief of the JASDF, Sadamu Sanagi, had conducted a selection from going to America and submitted a report after returning home. In the report, the candidate aircraft were narrowed down to F-104 and G-98J (planned variant of the [[F11F-1]] Super Tiger). Accidents with the F-104 just deployed to the US Air Force. The fact that the aircraft required a 3,000-metre runway and insufficient data link capacity made the option clear for the Defense Agency and decided to adopt the G-98J-11 in 1958.

However, a fair share of criticism for adopting a vehicle that hadn't been proven yet and was still in its development stage made the Agency re-evaluate their choice and eventually withdraw it after a quote of another Chief of staff of the JASDF, Minoru Genda, saying {{Annotation|「乗ってみなければわからない」|It doesn't exist unless I've flown it.}}. He was flown to America to test this new variant of the G-98 and concluded that the G-98 is a Mach 1 class aircraft that was forcibly raised to a Mach 2 class, it might have great subsonic performance and acceleration, but this was neglected once it actually broke the sound barrier due to the swept-wing design.

On the contrary, the F-104 had a straight wing design creating higher drag at subsonic speeds and better supersonic acceleration and manoeuvrability, making the difference in performance between the two very clear. After all the negotiating and carefully considering the options, they decided that it would be better to choose the F-104. It filled the role of Interceptor at Mach 2 better than the G-98 and placed an order of 180 Fighters and 20 Trainers.

;Operational history

The M-2 bombing computer was removed from the F-104J in response to Japan's demand for a sole interceptor, and it was armed with a [[JM61 (20 mm)|JM61 Vulcan]] cannon and AIM-9B/E/P Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. The Vulcan cannon was not initially planned to be equipped, and 180 contracted aircraft have been manufactured unequipped. Later, a Vulcan gun was installed, but of the 210 F-104Js in total, only around 160 were equipped. The muzzle of the unequipped aircraft was blocked, and there was a spare fuel tank in the empty space instead.

Twenty-two Japanese F-104s were eventually converted to UF-104J radio-controlled target drones and destroyed for aerial target practice.

;Retirement

A total of 210 F-104J air-superiority fighters and 20 dual-control trainer F-104DJs were built, three by Lockheed, 29 by Mitsubishi from Lockheed-sourced components, and 178 by Mitsubishi. After being retired and replaced by F-15Js in Japan, the US sold 31 F-104J and 5 F-104DJ aircraft to the ROCAF to replace the remaining fleet of [[F-104A (China)|F-104A]]; due to the incompatibility of spare parts from standard F-104Gs, these obsolete airframes were soon phased out by newer jets in 1991, likely by the [[F-5E (China)|CKD version of F-5E produced by AIDC]].

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-104j Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
{{Skin-gallery|market|ugcitem_1000607|F-104J 'Eiko'.jpeg|Camo "F-104J ''Eiko'' 202nd TFS, 1980"|market|ugcitem_1001034|F-104J 202nd TFS.png|Camo "F-104J ''Eiko'' 202nd TFS, 1982"}}

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|W5H0nKBkniA|'''The Shooting Range #289''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:26 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/447151-mitsubishi-f-104j-eik%C5%8D/ <nowiki>[Forum] Mitsubishi F-104J Eikō</nowiki>]

{{Manufacturer MHI}}
{{Japan jet aircraft}}

F-15J

2023-12-31T20:45:35Z

U24824785: /* Pros and cons */ Added the better range of AAM-3 as Pros, Added the lack of HMD and far out to the right cannon placement as Cons

{{Specs-Card
|code=f_15j
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a variant of the American [[F-15A|F-15 ''Eagle'']] customized for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and produced under a licensing agreement with the United States, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries taking the lead in manufacturing. The F-15J, which entered service in the early 1980s, was designed to replace Japan's ageing fleet of [[F-104J|F-104J ''Eiko'']]s and [[F-4EJ|F-4EJ ''Phantom'']]s. This twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter featured advanced radar and avionics for long-range engagement. The aircraft's design emphasized air-to-air combat capabilities, featuring a mix of short and medium-range missiles, the AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-7 Sparrow respectively, on top of the domestic [[AAM-3]] missile.

Introduced in [[Update "Air Superiority"]], the F-15J is the crown jewel of the Japanese air tree. This translates to a very fast dedicated air superiority fighter, that is surprisingly nimble for such a heavy machine. It remains a very capable jet even when compared to its competition like the [[Su-27]] and the [[JAS39A|JAS39 Gripen]]. It is also the only plane featuring the AAM-3 domestic Japanese missile in-game.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The F-15J is a heavy aircraft, but quite nimble for its size. It can pull surprisingly well for its weight and size. Caution should be taken between Mach 1.0 and 1.1, as a combination of elevator, rudder, and aileron deflection will easily rip the wings. It pulls very hard around 800 km/h IAS.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 10,668 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,534 || 2,505 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.5 || 22.7 || 262.6 || 248.2 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,657 || 2,592 || 21.3 || 21.9 || 361.6 || 310.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,629  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 548 || 481 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Ishikawa-Harima F100-IHI-100 || 2
| colspan="2" | 12,940 kg || colspan="3" | 337 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 40m fuel
|-
| 1,470 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 14,770 kg || 15,966 kg || 17,479 kg || 19,039 kg || 28,920 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 40m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 6,140 kgf || 8,510 kgf
| 1.15 || 1.07 || 0.97 || 0.89 || 0.59
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,061 kgf (1,629 km/h) || 13,939 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.89 || 1.75 || 1.59 || 1.46 || 0.96
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

The F-15 was designed with a focus on survivability. It can often survive non-direct missile hits and still be operational enough to land, compared to an [[F-16 (Family)|F-16]] or a [[Mirage 2000 (Family)|Mirage 2000]] which cannot fly well with damaged wings. The F-15 has no armour protection, but the high capacity of countermeasures (240) helps with decoying incoming missiles.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|JM61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (940 rpg)
* 240 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="11" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-15A.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 ||
|-
! [[AAM-3]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-7M Sparrow]] missiles
| || || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9M Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! 610 gal drop tanks
| || 1* || || || || 1 || || || || 1* ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 5,448 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,000 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Wing-mounted drop tanks must be equipped together
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 3 x 610 gal drop tanks
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AAM-3 missiles
* 4 x AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
* 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 3 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 9 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

The F-15J has very basic armament loadouts. It gets access to some of the best IR missiles in-game, the AAM-3, which performs like an improved version of the famous [[AIM-9M]]. In terms of SARH missiles, the [[AIM-7M Sparrow|AIM-7M]] are the only possible missiles.

In terms of air-to-ground ordnance, the F-15J has three hardpoints that can carry up to 3 x 2,000 lb bombs, up to 18 x 500 lb bombs, or up to 9 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs.

The F-15J also has access to up to three drop tanks.

== Usage in battles ==

The F-15J is a top-tier aircraft that can punch above its weight. It is a big and heavy aircraft, with all of the features a competitive top-tier jet needs for air-to-air combat. It gets access to eight air-to-air missiles in total, a good amount of flares, and a good flight model.

One might think the F-15J would be bad at dogfighting, however, due to its design it can fight surprisingly well for such a big plane. It can have a hard time against planes that can pull a lot of AOA (Angle of Attack) like the [[Su-27]], or the [[JAS39A|JAS 39]], however, due to the powerful engines of the F-15J, such enemies will have a hard time keeping up with the Eagle in the long run.

The F-15's flight model can be compared to a combination of an F-4 and an F-16. It is a brick, like the F-4, however it turns extremely well under the right circumstances, like an F-16.

* The F-15J does not have a lot of playstyles due to its limitations. It should be used as a "Boom-And-Zoom" plane. the F-15J should never be inside the "furball" that forms in the first minutes of the match, however, the pilot of the F-15 should be ready at any moment after the formation of the "furball" be ready to speed towards it to launch some AAM-3 and maybe AIM-7M missiles. After passing through the furball and dodging incoming missiles, the pilot should keep their energy up, and go back again to try and destroy some more targets. It is also possible to grab 12 x 500 lbs bombs to destroy one base for some extra RP and SL, and then proceed to fight the enemy planes. Generally, 40 minutes of total fuel is enough for a match of Air Realistic battles. Each drop tank has around 11 minutes of fuel.
* The F-15J can be a good interceptor in Ground Realistic battles, however, it is outclassed by the [[F-16AJ]] due to its access to [[AGM-65B]].

The F-15J is quite a specialized aircraft, tailor-made for the air superiority role due to its armament. It is a competitive jet that has its quirks and few compromises, but it is very scary in the hands of a good pilot.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very high thrust-to-weight ratio, allowing very high acceleration, rapid climbing and dogfight endurance
* High amount of countermeasures (240) allowing it to decoy missiles reliably
* AAM-3 missiles, akin to an improved AIM-9M with better turning capability and better range
* High amount of fuel, providing ~18 minutes of afterburning time
* Good manoeuvrability for such a big and heavy jet fighter
* High ammo capacity

'''Cons:'''

* Heavyweight
* The cannon is placed quite far away to the right, which makes aiming tricky
* No HMD for radar or missiles
* No guided air-to-ground armament
* Tends to compress at speeds above Mach 1
*

== History ==

The '''F-15J ''Eagle''''', a cornerstone of Japan's air defence, represents a pivotal chapter in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's (JASDF) history. This twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter, a variant of the American McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle, emerged from Japan's strategic need to modernize its air capabilities in the 1970s. During this period, Japan was in the process of phasing out its ageing fleet of [[F-104J]] Starfighters and [[F-4EJ Phantom II]]s. After a thorough evaluation of various options, including the [[F-14 (Family)|F-14 ''Tomcat'']] and [[F-16 (Family)|F-16 ''Fighting Falcon'']], the JASDF settled on the F-15 Eagle, primarily for its unmatched air superiority.

The journey of the F-15J began with a landmark agreement in 1978 between Japan and the United States, allowing Japan to produce the fighter under license. This decision was more than a mere procurement choice; it was a strategic manoeuvre aimed at bolstering Japan's domestic aerospace industry. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was entrusted with the manufacturing, marking a significant step in Japan's post-war industrial and defence capabilities. The initial batch of F-15Js was assembled in the United States and then shipped to Japan for final assembly, but subsequent units were wholly constructed in Japan, showcasing the country's growing technical prowess.

The F-15J was tailored to meet specific Japanese requirements. It incorporated indigenous electronic warfare systems, radar, and other avionics, distinguishing it from its American counterpart. However, in line with Japan's defence-oriented policy, certain features like in-flight refuelling were initially left out.

Inducted into service in 1982, the F-15J swiftly became the backbone of Japan's air superiority. Over the years, it underwent several upgrades, enhancing its radar, avionics, and weapon systems to keep pace with global technological advancements. The F-15J's role extended beyond mere hardware; it was integral in joint training exercises with the United States and other allies, honing the JASDF's tactical capabilities and ensuring interoperability.

A key aspect of the F-15J's operational history is its role in air defence. Tasked with safeguarding Japan's airspace, it has been routinely scrambled to intercept foreign military aircraft, particularly Russian and Chinese, near Japanese territory. However, in alignment with Japan's post-World War II pacifist constitution, the F-15J has not been engaged in active combat. Its use has been strictly limited to defensive and deterrence missions.

Looking to the future, Japan has initiated an ambitious modernization program for its F-15J fleet. This program aims to equip the fighters with advanced electronics, radar systems, and the ability to carry more sophisticated weaponry. Yet, as the defence landscape evolves, discussions about the F-15J's role in Japan's future air defence strategy continue, with potential transitions to newer platforms like the F-35 Lightning II being considered.

== Media ==

''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{Manufacturer MHI}}
{{Japan jet aircraft}}