

It’s not that impressive considering it came into service after Vietnam which is the last time the US faced an enemy with a real air force and effective air defenses. Not to mention the fact that the cheaper more numerous F16 has been the real work horse (and cannon fodder) of the USAF since then.


Yeah the two gulf of Sidra incidents in 1980s are the only time US pilots have seen actual “dog fighting” since Vietnam.
Each fight lasted seconds and only involved only two aircraft on each side but because they’re the only aerial fight the US has had post-Vietnam these two incidents are treated like the Battle of Midway or something. lol
Entire fucking books have been written on them, tactical “strategies” and techniques developed on them. Even had goddamn movies (Top Gun) made to commemorate these shoot down incidents. lol