F104C Starfighter

Specifications F104C Starfighter blueprint

The F104C Starfighter is an American supersonic interceptor aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin for the United States Air Force. Featuring a revolutionary design in a compact package, the F104C is heralded as one of the most important aircraft designs of the 20th century. The F104C has an iconic shape, with a high-mounted thin wing and a low-mounted circular intake in the nose. This combination coupled with its twin-engine configuration gives the Starfighter excellent speed and maneuverability. It can climb to an altitude of 50,000 feet in just under two minutes and reach a maximum speed of around Mach 2.2, making it one of the fastest interceptors in the world. The airframe of the Starfighter is constructed primarily of stainless steel and aluminum alloy, making it both light and highly durable. The flight control system is hydraulically-assisted, giving the aircraft its remarkable agility. The pilot has access to all necessary information from a comprehensive Heads-Up Display, while multiple warning lights notify him of any malfunctions. The F104C was designed for combat operations, but it also proved to be a valuable addition to the Air Force's fleet. It was the first to be equipped with a guided missile system, allowing it to deliver air-to-air strikes from beyond visual range. It was also used for reconnaissance and transport operations, as well as the testing of a variety of weapon systems. Today the F104C is still in use by the U.S. military, having amassed an impressive combat record and becoming an icon of the 20th century aviation. Its unique design and capabilities have earned it a place in history as one of the most groundbreaking aircraft designs of all time.