A flight of two F-15E Strike Eagles takeoff but watch the second one, which of all the 1000’s of departures we have seen at RAF Lakenheath, is one of the best we have ever seen.
Summary
This video features a flight of two F-15E Strike Eagles departing from RAF Lakenheath, highlighting an exceptional takeoff performance by the second aircraft. The footage showcases what is described as one of the best quick climbs ever recorded at this location among thousands observed over time. A quick climb involves clearing the runway while maintaining low altitude before pulling vertically to reach cruising speed and height rapidly. This maneuver differs from vertical acceleration seen in other jets like the Typhoon, which typically lift off after nine seconds but maintain ground contact longer during initial phases. Pilots request these climbs for various operational reasons including airspace clearance or fuel conservation prior to refueling. RAF Lakenheath serves as a USAF base originally built by the Royal Air Force starting in 1940 and later operated by American forces since 1952. The site hosts multiple squadrons flying diverse aircraft types through decades of military history involving World War II operations, Cold War missions, and modern fighter deployments including recent F-35A integration after previous squadron deactivations related to legacy aircraft retirements.
