Pixy's callsign/backstory is based on a real life incident. An Israeli F-15 was involved in a midair collision during a training exercise, shearing off most of one wing. Despite the damage, the pilot was able to land safely. Like the saying goes, a brick will fly if you strap a big enough engine on it.
That was actually due to the shape and size of the F-15's engine intakes, mostly. If it were due to sheer engine power, it wouldn't have been able to slow down enough for a gear-down landing.
As for the markings, they were mercenaries. They never did say where it actually happened...