USAF's legacy dual Eagle used for tests
Aviation enthusiast and photographer Nate Leong provided Scramble Magazine with a series of photographs taken at Morris Air National Guard Base near Tucson (AZ) on 20 November 2024.
The images capture daily flight operations involving an OT-coded F-15C from the 15th Test and Evaluation Squadron and locally based F-16C/Ds from the Air National Guard Air Force Reserve Command Test Center (AATC).
Among the highlights, Nate captured a California Air National Guard-marked F-15D from the 194th Fighter Squadron, serial number 85-0129, undergoing flight testing with a pod mounted on its port wing station. The test pod is affixed to a pylon typically used to carry a 600-gallon fuel tank.
This aircraft, part of the 144th Fighter Wing based at Fresno Air National Guard Base near Fresno Yosemite International Airport in California, has been in service with the 194th Fighter Squadron for several years.
Currently, the nature of the pod remains uncertain. Historically, Edwards AFB-coded F-15Ds were used for testing the Airborne Turret Infrared Measurement System (ATIMS), making the F-15D a logical platform for large test pods. With legacy F-15 Eagles gradually being retired and only a few F-15D dual-seat variants remaining in USAF's inventory, Scramble Magazine assesses that 85-0129 will continue to serve in this role for the foreseeable future.
Another notable sighting was the 15th TES OT-coded F-15C, serial number 83-0026, bearing "ANG AFRC TEST CENTER" markings on its tail below the serial number. This aircraft's connection underscores the vital role of the Air National Guard Air Force Reserve Command Test Center (AATC) at Morris ANGB.
The AATC traces its origins to 1981 when it was founded as the Fighter Weapons Office, dedicated to supporting software improvements for the A-7D/K Corsair II aircraft, which at the time was exclusively operated by the Air National Guard.
In 1987, the Fighter Weapons Office was officially renamed the Air National Guard Air Force Reserve Command Test Center. Since then, it has served as the primary test and evaluation hub for the Air Reserve Component (ARC).
Credit photos: Nate Leong