The Mitsubishi F-15J/DJ Eagle is a twin-engine, all-weather interceptor fighter based on the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle in use by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). The F-15J was produced under license by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. The subsequent F-15DJ and F-15J Kai variants were also produced. Japan is the largest customer of the F-15 Eagle outside the United States. In addition to combat, F-15DJ roles include training. The F-15J Kai is a modernized version of the F-15J. A total of 141 single seat and 37 two seat F-15s were built.

In the latter period of 1981, the first F-15J/DJ aircraft were sent to the 202 Squadron, which was reorganized as an Eagle FTU and renamed the 23 Flying Training Squadron at Nyutabaru base on 21 December 1982. The JASDF developed a plan to form the first squadron after the notorious KAL007 shooting down by a Soviet Su-15 on 1 September 1983. In March 1984, new F-15Js began replacing the 203 Squadron's F-104Js at Chitose base, located across the La Pérouse Strait from the Soviet fighter base on Sakhalin Island. The Eagle will be Japan's main interceptor for the foreseeable future thanks to the United States' refusal to allow the F-22 to be exported.

Opening the box reveals what is to many of us, an old friend. Hasegawa's F-15C/D kit was a brand new tool in the mid 1980's, incorporating the latest in molding technology of the time. It still holds up quite well and for many, is the best Eagle kit in this scale. It also looks like every other 1/72 F-15 kit I've ever seen as there really is only one way to mold an Eagle!

The cockpit section includes raised detail on the instrument panel and side consoles as well as decent detailing in the electronics bay behind the cockpit. Decals are also provided for the instruments if you so wish. There is an actuating ram for the canopy so it can be shown in the open position as can be the speed brake, which is normally closed except when using it or showing off at air shows. The modular design of the kit allows for either a single seat or two seat nose to be attached to the rest of the airframe, though only the two seat nose is included. This forward section is split vertically while the fuselage is split horizontally. There are not any long intake trunks on this kit, though there is a blanking plate with a compressor face. Wings are build separately from the fuselage and slotted on at a later time.

One concession to the more modern F-15C/D is that the 'turkey feathers' exhaust is not included. The more open and complex-looking burner cans are provided and are to be built up, something that many may find to be a challenge since there are so many small parts. Typical of Hasegawa kits, no weapons are supplied. You have four long range fuel tanks provided, of which you really only need three. Phantom modelers will like having the spare to use on their late use F-4E/Gs. You are provided weapons pylons so if you want to pop the extra dollars for a weapons set, you'll have something to use them on.

Instructions are typical Hasegawa with Gunze paints referenced. The large decal sheet is mostly stencils and is quite extensive. Serials for three differently painted F-15DJs are included with the sheet. As you might suspect, painting is the major requirement for any of these schemes. The sheet also includes large sections of grey to use as patches or any other use. It is well printed and should cause no issues if used with pretty hot water.