EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Air Force Armament Museum welcomed its newest aircraft, an F-15E Strike Eagle, to its outdoor displays with a dedication ceremony April 10, 2026.
The Strike Eagle, known as 86-184 became the first ever F-15E to become a museum display. The approximately 35-year-old F-15E was a developmental test aircraft for its entire Air Force career serving with the 96th and 412th Test Wings and was one of the oldest in the active fleet.
“This Strike Eagle will take her rightful place here among the equally distinguished artifacts for the public to engage,” said retired Brig. Gen. Fran Hendricks, the museum foundation’s president.
Former Air Armament Center and Eglin commander Maj. Gen. Robert Chedister, who flew 86-184, was commemorated as the named pilot displayed on the aircraft.
“His (Chedister) name on the canopy is a lasting salute to a man who gave so much to the country he loved both in and out of uniform,” said Hendricks.
Weapons system officer, Lt. Col. Rich Bailey, as well as maintainers, Master Sgt. Vik Maharaj, Staff Sgt. Robert Lawson and Staff Sgt. Benjamin Haag also had their names displayed on 86-184.
“This new and first of its kind edition to our museum is both a tribute to all who have served at Eglin and an inspiration to those who will follow,” Hendricks concluded.