Chance Vought F8E

Specifications Chance Vought F8E blueprint

The Chance Vought F8E was a supersonic fighter-bomber aircraft developed and produced in the United States from the late 1950s to the early 1960s. This versatile airframe was designed for multi-role missions, with an emphasis on ground attack and close air support. The F8E was a classic single-engine, single-seat fighter aircraft with a swept-wing design for improved high-altitude performance. It was armed with a suite of four 20 mm M61 Vulcan rotary cannons, along with additional hard points for external ordinance. It could also be equipped with several air-to-air missiles for self-defense. Its airframe was largely constructed out of metal and was powered by a General Electric J79-GE-8 turbojet engine that generated up to 15,800 of thrust. This allowed the F8E to reach a maximum speed of Mach 2.2 and achieve a service ceiling of 55,800 feet. It was capable of carrying up to 10,000lbs of external stores. The F8E was praised for its agility and maneuverability, not to mention the fact it could handle heavy punishment and still remain ready for combat. Its rugged airframe not only made it an effective platform on the offensive, but a reliable one as well. Additionally, its endurance was noteworthy, offering up to five hours of air time on extended patrols. The F8E has gone down in history as one of the most iconic fighters of the Cold War due to its effectiveness in the Vietnam War. It was renowned for its ability to provide close air support and strike the enemy with devastating effect.