T-38 Talon

T-38 Talon History

Northrop Aviation began a private venture development program in the mid 1950s to create a high performance lightweight fighter that would be suitable for supply to and operation by friendly nations via the Military Assistance Program.  It was designated Northrop N-156 and developed into the YT-38.  First flown in 1959, the results were good and the military ordered T-38A Talons which entered service on 17 March, 1961.

Produced between 1961 and 1972, total aircraft 1187 built for the USAF

As we get specific history information for this aircraft, we will update the site.

T-38 Talon Specifications

Dimensions & Weights

Wingspan

25 ft 3 in

Length

46 ft 4.5 in

Height

12 ft 10.5 in

Maximum takeoff weight

12,093 lbs

Accommodation

Two: Trainee and instructor pilot

Performance

Mach

1.3 or 858 MPH @ 36,000 ft

Cruising speed:

350 mph

Range:

1,093 miles

Service Ceiling:

53,600 ft

Powerplant

Two 3850-lb afterburning trust General Electric J85-GE-5A turbojets

Crew Chief

Rick Elwood