F15C

[Snoop 95]

I noticed when watching the F35's arrive that some of the F15C models have lost their 'LN' tail codes, presumably in advance of returning to the US on disbandment of the squadron.

[5tu1e]

Correct

[colt99]

I believe it is the ones that have been on maintenance in the US recently then flown back to Lakenheath, so not woth putting the tail code on as it will need changing soon. That's why some still have a code and others don't.

[LN Strike Eagle]

I believe it is the ones that have been on maintenance in the US recently then flown back to Lakenheath, so not woth putting the tail code on as it will need changing soon. That's why some still have a code and others don't.

84-0015 came back from PDM in September in Lakenheath markings. The badges and codes have been painted over since then. Likewise, 84-0027 was in full markings when I visited in October (493 FS boss bird).

I wonder if these unmarked ones will leave soon, perhaps with the tanker that brought today's F-35s?

[colt99]

Thanks LN, makes sense about the unmarked ones being the first to leave.

[POL]

Still waiting to see this rumour of a special marked jet too...

[Eggcellent]

How soon will they be leaving? January/February time?

[LN Strike Eagle]

They're all gone by the end of Feb according to Scramble, so I would guess they could start leaving in the coming days/weeks in batches?

[Reach1985]

I’m guessing 493rd will then become the second F-35 sqn? Is there a timeline for when the wing will have its full complement (2 x F-35 / 2 x F-15 sqn). I’ll be sad to see the C’s go. Will have to try to get to LN early next year to see them one last time :-(

[welshandy]

They're all gone by the end of Feb according to Scramble, so I would guess they could start leaving in the coming days/weeks in batches?

Surprised leaving so early, as the 2nd batch of F35's for the 495th are not due until March(will be many months before up to full strength). or is it down to lack space on the Base?

[roughcutter]

Wonder if one of the C's will be painted up in a farewell scheme? (Just a thought...)

[Canberra TT.18]

They're all gone by the end of Feb according to Scramble, so I would guess they could start leaving in the coming days/weeks in batches?

Surprised leaving so early, as the 2nd batch of F35's for the 495th are not due until March(will be many months before up to full strength). or is it down to lack space on the Base?

I guess the squadrons pilots need to go to US to train/convert on F-35. When pilots are gone there is no need for aircraft to stay.