T-38 Talon

USAF photo by TSgt. Fernando Serna

Mission
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 Air Education and Training Command for undergraduate pilot and pilot instructor training. Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) also use the T-38 in various roles.

Characteristics
Primary Function: Advanced jet pilot trainer
Contractor: Northrop Corp.
Power Plant: Two General Electric J85-GE-5 turbojet engines with afterburners
Thrust: 2,900 pounds, each engine with afterburners
Length: 46 feet, 4.5 inches (14 meters)
Height: 12 feet, 10.5 inches (3.8 meters)
Wingspan: 25 feet, 3 inches (7.6 meters)
Speed: 812 miles per hour (Mach 1.08)
Ceiling: Above 55,000 feet (16,667 meters)
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 12,500 pounds (5,670 kilograms)
Armament: T-38A: none; AT-38B: has provisions for external armament
Range: 1,000 miles (870 nautical miles)
Unit Cost: $756,000
Crew: Two (student and instructor)
Date Deployed: March 1961
Inventory: Active force = 562; National Guard = 0; Reserve = 0

ALL INFORMATION IS FROM THE U.S. AIR FORCE WEBSITE