NAVAIR

T-38 Talon

Mission

USN -- Training jet for U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.

Description

The T-38 Talon is a twin-engine, high-altitude, supersonic jet trainer used in a variety of roles because of its design, economy of operations, ease of maintenance, high performance, and exceptional safety record. It is used primarily by the Air Force Air Education and Training Command (AETC) for undergraduate pilot and pilot instructor training. Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command, US Naval Test Pilot School, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) also use the T-38 in various roles.

Specifications

Primary Function: Training jet for U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.
Date Deployed: 1961.
Propulsion: (2) J85-GE-5 turbojet engines each producing 2,900 pounds (1,315 kilograms) of thrust with afterburners.
Length: 46 feet, 4 1/2 inches (14 meters).
Wingspan: 25 feet, 3 inches (7.6 meters).
Height: 12 feet, 10 1/2 inches (3.8 meters).
Weight: Max. gross, take-off: 12,500 pounds (5,670 kilograms).
Airspeed: 812 mph (Mach 1.08 at sea level).
Ceiling: 55,000+ feet (16,667 meters).
Range: Max. 1,000 miles (870 nautical miles).
Crew: Two.
Prime Contractors:  Northrop Grumman & General Electric

Program Status

Production Phase: Operational
Inventory: 10