Air Force grounds F-15s again, but not E model
By Kenneth Fine
Published in News on November 29, 2007 1:46 PM
For the second time in less than a month, Air Combat Command officials have ordered the grounding of F-15 fighter jets.
But this time, the E model stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base will not be affected.
ACC spokesman Maj. Tom Crosson said the directive came after an investigation into the Nov. 2 crash of a Missouri National Guard F-15C revealed structural problems near the canopy of the aircraft.
A metallurgical analysis of the "mishap aircraft" drew attention to the F-15's upper longerons, major structural components of the fighter jet that run along its length and side.
Manufacturer simulations indicate a "catastrophic failure" could occur in this area.
Crosson said more than 400 A through D models have since been ordered to stand down.
But because the E model -- known around Seymour Johnson's 4th Fighter Wing as the Strike Eagle -- is the newest version of the aircraft in the Air Force's 600-plus F-15 fleet, the structure of concern "does not exist in the same way" on it.
Crosson said it is unclear when the order will be lifted.
In the meantime, F-15A through F-15D crews will take their training to classrooms and simulators.
"They are not just going to go home and twiddle their thumbs," he said.
More than a dozen 4th Fighter Wing F-15Es are currently deployed as members of the 336th Fighter Squadron "Rocketeers" continue their support of the global war on terror.