The story
The T-38 Talon has been training military pilots since 1961 — more than 60 years and still the primary advanced trainer. Supersonic, twin-engine, and the aircraft that separates student pilots from fighter pilots.
NASA astronauts fly T-38s to keep their skills sharp, and T-38 chase planes escorted Space Shuttles in to land.
Quick answers
How do you identify a T-38 Talon?
Small, white, supersonic trainer. Tandem cockpit. Swept wings. Every US Air Force pilot has flown one.
What does a T-38 Talon sound like?
Twin J85 afterburning turbojets — a high-pitched scream that echoes across the base.
How fast is the T-38 Talon?
Top speed is Mach 1.3.
How far can the T-38 Talon fly?
Range is about 991 nmi.
How big is the T-38 Talon?
It is 46 ft 4 in long and 25 ft 3 in across the wings.
When did the T-38 Talon first fly?
Its first flight was in 1959.
How many T-38 Talons have been built?
1,187 built.
What do crews call the T-38 Talon?
The White Rocket.
How rare is a T-38 Talon in Bogey?
RARE. A good day. Most spotters go weeks between sightings of something this rare. Your first T-38 Talon catch is worth 250 points.
