F-104 Starfighter: Lockheed's Sleek Cold War Interceptor

The F-104 Starfighter was developed by Lockheed in the late 1950s as an all-weather interceptor. It was fast but had compromised low-speed handling and landing characteristics. It had a short service life with the US Air Force but remained on duty with several large NATO allies for decades. It is now displayed in museums and has an alarming accident rate.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2023
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd

The F-104 Starfighter, a remarkable aircraft developed by Lockheed in the late 1950s, was meticulously crafted to serve as an all-weather interceptor. With an unwavering focus on speed, climb, and altitude, the designers aimed to create a cutting-edge fighter that would exceed expectations. The result was a plane that showcased extraordinary speed, achieving remarkable top speeds that came at a cost. While the F-104 Starfighter was incredibly fast, it compromised low-speed handling and landing characteristics. However, its short service life with the US Air Force was far from indicative of its impact. Many large NATO allies continued to rely on the Starfighter for decades, particularly when deployed abroad. It gained a reputation for being challenging to fly, leading to an alarming accident rate. Today, these iconic aircraft are showcased in museums, serving as a testament to their remarkable design and engineering. This comprehensive photographic survey of the F-104 Starfighter delves into its various prototype versions and models, including the A, B, C/D, G, N, Canadian CF-104, Japanese F-104J, and F-104S. Each chapter provides a detailed account of the Starfighter's development, capabilities, and operational history, offering a deep appreciation for this iconic aircraft's significance in aviation history.

Weight: 932g
Dimension: 235 x 255 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780764367861