Difference between revisions of "F-104A"

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(The 104 A has the better engine, than C. See in-game stats as well as Speed Tests done by dogeness and Adam 514 on their spreadsheet of tests.)
 
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{{Specs-Card|code=f-104a}}
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{{About
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| about = jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = F-104 (Family)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=f-104a
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
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}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The first production version of the Starfighter series was the F-104A. 140+ F-104A Starfighters were ordered by the USAF and in total 170 Starfighters were in service (some YF-104As were converted to production standard). The F-104A had a stronger airframe as well as additions made to the airframe for stability. The F-104A was planned to replace the ageing F-100 Super Sabre but later didn't fit the requirements set by the USAF. It was stuck in limbo until problems with the production of the Convair-built F-106 let the Starfighter live on in another role, interdiction. At this time, the F-104A was powered by the J79-GE-3A which was riddled with issues. The F-104As were grounded shortly after to resolve the issues with the -3A until the J79-GE-3B came to fruition. Even after the engine change, the USAF still found the F-104A to be lacklustre for air interception due to the lack of all-weather capability and low endurance. Many surplus Starfighters were sent to other countries.
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{{Break}}
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Starfighters"]].
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Introduced in [[Update "Starfighters"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is quite a capable aircraft thanks to its J79 engine, cannon, and missiles. The F-104A regularly faces subsonic aircraft like the F-86 and Yak-38 so players should stick to using its immense speed and boom and zooming targets. The F-104A struggles with manoeuvrability so dogfights are highly discouraged, especially against subsonic aircraft. Furthermore, the F-104A can easily outrun many of its opponents so there is no point in staying slow to try and acquire a kill. In addition to the cannon, the F-104A also comes equipped with two AIM-9B Sidewinders which are mainly helpful in forcing an opponent to turn or against slow targets. The AIM-9B is a very situational missile and depends on a lot of factors. Overall, the {{Specs|name}} is one of the most feared aircraft at its battle rating.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
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[[File:F-104A in the sunset.jpg|alt=F-104 Starfighter breaks the soundbarrier at sunset with its afterburner roaring|thumb|A F-104A Starfighter breaks the sound barrier at sunset]]
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[[File:F-104A in the sunset.jpg|alt=F-104 Starfighter breaks the sound barrier at sunset with its afterburner roaring|thumb|An F-104A Starfighter breaks the sound barrier at sunset.]]
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''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
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The F-104s are generally very fast and the F-104A is no exception. The F-104A also features a better engine tan the F-104C, with thrust about 7% higher. Even when it is stock, the climb rate can be comparable to that of both the MiGs and the Phantoms. Its max speed of 2,079 km/h is just as good, if not better, than other top-tier jets. The acceleration of the F-104A is amazing so even when you are at low speeds it can quickly gain back the lost energy. However, the jet's manoeuvrability leaves much to be desired. Although it can out-turn other jets at its BR, it can only do so when it is going above Mach 1. At low speeds, any other top-tier jet can easily out-turn you.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
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| 2,104 || 2,079 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 32.4 || 33.0 || 190.9 || 182.9 || rowspan="2" | 1,180
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| 2,104 || 2,076 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 32.4 || 32.8 || 202.5 || 193.7 || rowspan="2" | 1,180
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
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| 2,195 || 2,149 || 31.6 || 32.0 || 270.2 || 235.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
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| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
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| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 2,350 || 833 || 444 || ~12 || ~5
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| 1,527 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 827 || 444 || ~13 || ~5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
| < 720 || < 950 || < 800 || N/A
 
| < 720 || < 950 || < 800 || N/A
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|-
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|}
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==== Engine performance ====
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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|-
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! colspan="3" | Engine
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! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
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|-
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! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
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! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
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|-
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| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-3B || 1
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| colspan="2" | 6,112 kg || colspan="3" | 509 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
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|-
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! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
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! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
 +
|-
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! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
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! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
 +
|-
 +
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
 +
| 6,915 kg || 7,624 kg || 8,380 kg || 8,789 kg || 24,000 kg
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 +
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
 +
|-
 +
! Condition || 100% || WEP
 +
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
 +
|-
 +
| ''Stationary'' || 4,190 kgf || 6,571 kgf
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| 0.95 || 0.86 || 0.78 || 0.75 || 0.27
 +
|-
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| ''Optimal'' || 4,190 kgf<br>(0 km/h) || 8,584 kgf<br>(1,200 km/h)
 +
| 1.24 || 1.13 || 1.02 || 0.98 || 0.36
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
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In terms of armour, there is no armour on the F-104A. Since the F-104A relies on high speed, it wouldn't need armour as that would reduce the speed and maneuverability of the plane.
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There is no armour on the F-104A. Since the F-104A relies on high speed, it wouldn't need armour as that would reduce the speed and manoeuvrability of the plane. The F-104A is a very long plane and it is not very manoeuvrable, making it a large, easy target for enemy guns. As such, the only characteristic that should be relied upon for survivability is the plane's speed. It is very quick, and as such is hard to catch.
 +
 
 +
* No armour
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
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{{main|M61 (20 mm)}}
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{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 1 x 20 mm M61 cannon, chin-mounted (750 rpg)
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* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (750 rpg)
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|AIM-9B Sidewinder}}
 
{{main|AIM-9B Sidewinder}}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
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The F-104A is a high speed, high altitude fighter-bomber / interceptor. It performs well on high altitude flights meant to intercept fighters and mainly bombers at high altitudes. When the F-104A is fighting at low altitudes with a slower plane, the pilot should consider a hit and run technique to out-speed and return to the target to avoid getting shot back.
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The F-104A is a high-speed, high-altitude fighter-bomber/interceptor. It performs well in high-altitude flights meant to intercept fighters and mainly bombers at high altitudes. When the F-104A is fighting at low altitudes with a slower plane, the pilot should consider a hit-and-run technique to out-speed and return to the target to avoid getting shot back.
 +
 
 +
The F-104A has a decent stock turn time of 33 seconds which is the average or decent turn time of most supersonic jets at rank VI for Soviet jets. The F-104A will have difficulties when trying to hit an enemy less than 1 or 2 km away using the 20 mm M61 cannon since this cannon will take some time to warm-up before shooting and turn fights will also be difficult due to high-speed manoeuvres causing an average 8 or more Gs rendering the pilot unconscious for most of the time. Even though stalling should be avoided, it is possible to get an opportunity during stall conditions by extending the landing flap to give the plane extra nose authority, allowing you to control your altitude to a degree that can surprise most opponents.
  
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The F-104A has a decent stock turn time of 33 seconds which is the average or decent turn time of most supersonic jets on rank VI for Russian jets. The F-104A will have difficulties when trying to hit an enemy less than 1 or 2 kilometers away using the 20mm M61 cannon since this cannon will take some time to warm-up before shooting and turn fights will also be difficult due to high speed maneuvers causing an average 8 or more Gs rendering the pilot unconscious for most of the time.
+
Using the F-104A's M61 cannon against helicopters would be very easy since they're slow and most of the time is in constant direction and speed, while you are attacking from the side or back with speeds almost or higher than Mach 1, the helicopter won't notice until you strafe at them.
  
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Using the F-104A's M61 cannon against helicopters would be very easy since they're slow and most of the time are in constant direction and speed, while you are attacking from the side or back with speeds almost or higher than mach 1, the helicopter won't notice until you strafe at them.
+
Unfortunately, the AIM-9B sidewinder missiles the F-104A carries are lacking at its BR. Most other jets at the top tier have much better air-to-air missiles which travel, lock and turn better than the AIM-9B. Therefore, they should only be used in situations where they cannot effectively turn or dodge, or don't know it's coming.
  
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Sitting at BR 9.7, it would only take a few time to be up-tiered to jets that carry both flares and more AAMs than you, since the F-104A isn't carrying any flares, you would have to rely on the planes decent maneuverability, and high speed, and maybe turn off the afterburner and maybe even the engine to reduce the incoming AAMs chance to hit the plane, always remember the insane climb rate for the plane, this means you can also face the incoming AAM at the sun even when the sun is at a steep angle, this in turn would spend more fuel since you would need to use afterburners to efficiently climb at steep angles, out-running short-range anti-air missiles are tricky since some go mach 1.7, while others go mach 2.5, do not expect all missiles to be out-runned.
+
The F-104A isn't carrying any flares, so you would have to rely on the plane's decent manoeuvrability, and high speed, and maybe turn off the afterburner and maybe even the engine to reduce the incoming AAMs chance to hit the plane. Always remember the insane climb rate for the plane, this means you can also face the incoming AAM at the sun even when the sun is at a steep angle. This in turn would spend more fuel since you would need to use afterburners to efficiently climb at steep angles, out-running short-range anti-air missiles is tricky since some go Mach 1.7, while others go Mach 2.5, do not expect all missiles to be outrun. An alternative for low-maneuverability missiles, such as AIM-9Bs and the Soviet R-3 variants, is making a turn to cause the missile to lead more, followed by a violent turn in the opposite direction. Note that this maneuver will only work at a sufficiently high speed (around or over Mach 1).
  
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=== Modules ===
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=== Radars ===
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
<!--{{main|AN/APS-19}}-->
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! Tier
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The F-104A is equipped with an AN/ASG-14 search and tracking radar. The radar is mounted in the nose of the aircraft.
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! colspan="2" | Flight performance
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−
! Survivability
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
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! colspan="4" | AN/ASG-14 - Target Detection Radar
 
|-
 
|-
−
| I
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! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The maximum possible range at which a target can be detected}}
−
| Fuselage repair
+
! {{Annotation|Guaranteed<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The range, below which, detection of a target is practically guaranteed}}
−
|
+
! {{Annotation|Max Azimuth<br/>Scan Angle|How far to each side the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
−
|
+
! {{Annotation|Max Elevation<br/>Scan Angle|How far up and down the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| II
+
| 37,000 m<br />(theoretical) || 15,000 m || ±45° || ±45°
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
|
 
−
| AIM-9B
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| III
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! colspan="4" | AN/ASG-14 - Target Tracking Radar
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| IV
+
! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
−
| G-suit
+
! {{Annotation|Minimum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
−
|
+
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking<br/>Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
−
| Cover
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! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking<br/>Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
−
|
+
|-
−
|
+
| 18,500 m || 150 m || ±10° || ±10°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Good top speed for its rank
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* Great top speed
−
* Great rate of climb; even the F-4 Phantom may struggle to match it
+
* Great rate of climb
−
* Decent high-speed maneuverability, in spite of its tiny wings
+
* Good roll rate
−
* 20 mm Vulcan gun can really do some serious damage
+
* Decent high-speed manoeuvrability
−
* Has access to AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles
+
* Powerful M61 Vulcan cannon with a very high fire rate, great ballistics and high damage
−
* Good roll rate for a jet
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lousy low-speed maneuverability
+
* Very poor overall manoeuvrability and terrible low-speed manoeuvrability
−
* Only one secondary weapon load
+
* Bleeds energy quickly in sustained turnfights
−
* Can't carry bombs
+
* The cannon's high rate of fire requires trigger discipline
−
* Relatively low ammo count for the Vulcan; trigger discipline is necessary
+
* Air-to-air missiles are weak compared to analogues of the rank
−
* M61 Vulcan doesn't shoot instantly, takes less than a second to rotate
+
* No ground attack payloads whatsoever
−
* No flares to counter AAMs
+
* Lacks RWR or countermeasures
−
* As with most jets, it tends to bleed off speed quickly in sustained turns
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
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The F-104A Starfighter was the first in-service United States Air Force (USAF) fighter to fly at twice the speed of sound, and made its first flight on February 7th, 1954<ref>https://airandspace.si.edu/collection-objects/lockheed-f-104a-starfighter/nasm_A19761017000</ref>. In [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DV7q-ptOyQ&feature=youtu.be this video] from Lockheeed Martin's archives, the Starfighter's maiden flight can be viewed. The F-104 began being designed in November 1952, when the USAF requested a superiority day fighter<ref name=":0">https://www.airplanesofthepast.com/f104-starfighter.htm</ref>. The USAF chose Lockheed Martin's protype, with its unusually stubby straight wings, in a time when fighters had large, swept back, wings<ref name=":0" />. The first F-104A's were delivered to the 83rd Fighter-Interceptor squadron stationed at Hamilton Air Force Base on January 26, 1958, where they would break speed and altitude records<ref name=":0" />. One major record that was set by an F-104A was when Major Howard C. Johnson set a new altitude record by flying at 91,243 ft on May 7th, 1958<ref>https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=113</ref>.
+
The brainchild of famed Lockheed engineer Clarence "Kelly" Johnson, after having spoken to USAF pilots about their experience in the Korean Air War, the F-104 Starfighter was innovative in both its design and speed. Developed from the start as a daytime air-superiority fighter with speed in mind, the Starfighter began life at Lockheed's famous "Skunk Works" facility in 1952 to combat the Soviet's new age of supersonic jet fighters. The aircraft would incorporate the smallest airframe, combined with the most technologically advanced turbojet at the time, to create the base of what would become the F-104.
 +
 
 +
In 1953, the USAF showed interest in the project, and proposed an open contest with Lockheed and multiple other firms for a supersonic interceptor, based wholly on performance. Lockheed evidently won the contest and approval for two prototypes to be produced and, in February of 1954, took flight for the first time. Although it was slated to be fitted with the General Electric J79 turbofan, due to shortages of the engines the prototypes were mated to a license-built variant of the British Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire engine, called the Wright XJ65-W-6, until the initial power-plant was available. The aircraft however was not without its problems, resulting in a four-year long developmental period for the aircraft. By the end of it, 17 pre-production YF-104As had been built, tested, and used to iron out any problems that would be noticeable on the final F-104. In 1958, the F-104 would finally be available for deliveries featuring some differences from the initial prototypes in the form of a longer fuselage as well as the fitting of General Electric J79GE-3 engines putting out a whopping 14,800 lbs of thrust.
 +
 
 +
From the start the F-104A smashed records, taking the record as the first operational fighter in service to succeed Mach 2, as well as going on to take the records for both altitude and speed in both the F-104A and F-104C variants respectively. On May 7th, 1958, Maj. Howard C. Johnson, in his F-104A, set a new world altitude record at 91,243 feet, and 11 days later another aircraft set a new speed record at 1,403.19 mph. The altitude record was later bested by another variant of the aircraft, the F-104C, at a whopping altitude of 103,389 feet. In the 1950s, the aircraft had come to be exactly what the public had expected a fighter of this magnitude to look like. With a long, pencil shaped fuselage with short, sharp edged wings it encompassed the era of space flight and Sci-Fi with its design. The wings were one of the most unique parts of the aircraft, as well as its long fuselage taken up mostly by its large engine and fuel storage, and were only 4 inches and its thickest. Sweeping was only utilized on the leading edge, and a slight anhedral was in place to combat "Dutch Roll", a phenomenon where the aircraft rocks side-to-side uncontrollably. The wings, while helping with supersonic flight, were harmful to ground crews, and special equipment had to be issued to service these areas.
 +
 
 +
While having a history of accidents and high pilot attrition, the aircraft was fitted with an ejection seat. Due to the great speed of the aircraft at Mach 2, it was believed that the seat wouldn't have enough time to clear the tail section in an ejection scenario. Therefore, a downward firing ejection seat known as the Stanley C-1 was fitted into early models of the F-104. While a good idea, and in theory could work, the C-1 was also believed harmful in the case of a low-altitude ejection of the aircraft. After a failed introduction of the Stanley C-2 ejection seat, the problem was finally solved by the introduction of the Martin-Baker ejection system, particularly in foreign-operator's Starfighters. Roughly 153 F-104As were produced, with 26 more being F-104B two-seat variants. The F-104A spend a short time in USAF service before being send to Air National Guard (ANG) units, which some others being sent to foreign operators which had some success in their service. The first combat of the F-104 however wouldn't be seen until the Vietnam War, and while not having any kills to count was successful in keeping MiGs back and from intercepting friendly aircraft. The aircraft had a short service life in this theatre, only serving in 1965, and again from 1967-1969 until the introduction of the more-capable F-4 Phantom II by which it was replaced.
 +
 
 +
=== [[wt:en/news/6731-development-f-104-starfighter-the-manned-missile-en|Devblog]] ===
 +
The development history of the F-104 Starfighter begins in 1951, when Lockheed's lead engineer visited US pilots in Korea. The feedback given to Johnson was clear - US planes were too large and complex and would often find themselves inferior to the much smaller and simpler Soviet MiG-15. On his return to the United States, Johnson assembled a team of engineers and started developing an aircraft that would address the concerns of the pilots.
 +
 
 +
The result of this undertaking was the F-104 Starfighter, whose first prototype, designated XF-104, first took to the skies on the 4th March 1954. Although both prototypes were lost during testing, the results delivered by the prototypes were promising enough for the USAF to accept the aircraft into service in November 1955.
 +
 
 +
Soon after entering production, the F-104 quickly also became a highly popular aircraft on the export market. West Germany was, alongside the United States, the primary operator of the Starfighter, owning over 900 F-104s in its air force at the peak of its service career. However, 13 other nations also employed the F-104 such as Canada, Italy, Japan, Spain, and many more.
 +
 
 +
The F-104 saw most of its combat service with the USAF, most notably taking part in the Vietnam War. Furthermore, the F-104 also saw combat during the Indo-Pakistani Wars in the mid '60s - early '70s while flying under Pakistani colors.
 +
 
 +
In the end, over 2,500 Starfighters would be built, with most being gradually decommissioned by the end of the Cold War. Italy was the last to decommission its F-104s in the early 2000s.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
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Image:F-104A Starfighter Among the Stars.jpg|<small>F104A Starfighter flying with a full afterburner on a clear starry night</small>
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{{Youtube-gallery|QAA4S31Hbhw|'''The Shooting Range #202''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:30 discusses the F-104 Starfighter.|S9qfGHj1YcI|'''The Shooting Range #211''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:15 discusses the F-104 Starfighter.}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
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''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
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* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
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;Related development
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* [[F-104 (Family)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
 
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=== References ===
 
=== References ===
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* Military Factory - Lockheed F-104 Starfighter: [https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=113 website]
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* Winchester, Jim - American Military Aircraft: A Century of Innovation - p.238-239 - 1, October 2017: [https://www.amazon.com/American-Military-Aircraft-Innovation-Aviation/dp/1782743197 website]
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{{AirManufacturer Lockheed}}
 
{{USA jet aircraft}}
 
{{USA jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 12:08, 19 October 2024

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the jet fighter F-104A. For other versions, see F-104 (Family).
F-104A
f-104a.png
GarageImage F-104A.jpg
ArtImage F-104A.png
F-104A
USA flag.png USA
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.7 9.3 9.7
Class:
Research:160 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:450 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The first production version of the Starfighter series was the F-104A. 140+ F-104A Starfighters were ordered by the USAF and in total 170 Starfighters were in service (some YF-104As were converted to production standard). The F-104A had a stronger airframe as well as additions made to the airframe for stability. The F-104A was planned to replace the ageing F-100 Super Sabre but later didn't fit the requirements set by the USAF. It was stuck in limbo until problems with the production of the Convair-built F-106 let the Starfighter live on in another role, interdiction. At this time, the F-104A was powered by the J79-GE-3A which was riddled with issues. The F-104As were grounded shortly after to resolve the issues with the -3A until the J79-GE-3B came to fruition. Even after the engine change, the USAF still found the F-104A to be lacklustre for air interception due to the lack of all-weather capability and low endurance. Many surplus Starfighters were sent to other countries.

Introduced in Update "Starfighters", the F-104A Starfighter is quite a capable aircraft thanks to its J79 engine, cannon, and missiles. The F-104A regularly faces subsonic aircraft like the F-86 and Yak-38 so players should stick to using its immense speed and boom and zooming targets. The F-104A struggles with manoeuvrability so dogfights are highly discouraged, especially against subsonic aircraft. Furthermore, the F-104A can easily outrun many of its opponents so there is no point in staying slow to try and acquire a kill. In addition to the cannon, the F-104A also comes equipped with two AIM-9B Sidewinders which are mainly helpful in forcing an opponent to turn or against slow targets. The AIM-9B is a very situational missile and depends on a lot of factors. Overall, the F-104A Starfighter is one of the most feared aircraft at its battle rating.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 10 668 m2 149 km/h
Turn time32 s
Max altitude18 900 m
EngineGeneral Electric J79-GE-3B
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight24 t
F-104 Starfighter breaks the sound barrier at sunset with its afterburner roaring
An F-104A Starfighter breaks the sound barrier at sunset.

The F-104s are generally very fast and the F-104A is no exception. The F-104A also features a better engine tan the F-104C, with thrust about 7% higher. Even when it is stock, the climb rate can be comparable to that of both the MiGs and the Phantoms. Its max speed of 2,079 km/h is just as good, if not better, than other top-tier jets. The acceleration of the F-104A is amazing so even when you are at low speeds it can quickly gain back the lost energy. However, the jet's manoeuvrability leaves much to be desired. Although it can out-turn other jets at its BR, it can only do so when it is going above Mach 1. At low speeds, any other top-tier jet can easily out-turn you.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 10,668 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 2,104 2,076 18900 32.4 32.8 202.5 193.7 1,180
Upgraded 2,195 2,149 31.6 32.0 270.2 235.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1,527 546 N/A 827 444 ~13 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 720 < 950 < 800 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
General Electric J79-GE-3B 1 6,112 kg 509 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 35m fuel
1,750 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 6,915 kg 7,624 kg 8,380 kg 8,789 kg 24,000 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 35m fuel MTOW
Stationary 4,190 kgf 6,571 kgf 0.95 0.86 0.78 0.75 0.27
Optimal 4,190 kgf
(0 km/h) 		8,584 kgf
(1,200 km/h) 		1.24 1.13 1.02 0.98 0.36

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear546 km/h

There is no armour on the F-104A. Since the F-104A relies on high speed, it wouldn't need armour as that would reduce the speed and manoeuvrability of the plane. The F-104A is a very long plane and it is not very manoeuvrable, making it a large, easy target for enemy guns. As such, the only characteristic that should be relied upon for survivability is the plane's speed. It is very quick, and as such is hard to catch.

  • No armour
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 081 → 4 085 Sl icon.png
RB10 323 → 13 688 Sl icon.png
SB9 906 → 13 135 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications143 000 Rp icon.png
224 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 400 Ge icon.png
Crew training130 000 Sl icon.png
Experts450 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces890 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 380 / 600 % Sl icon.png
214 / 214 / 214 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
23 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
36 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
23 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
36 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
M60_belt_pack
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9B
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
M60_new_gun
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 120 mm M61A1 cannon
Ammunition750 rounds
Fire rate6 000 shots/min
Main article: M61A1 (20 mm)

The F-104A is armed with:

  • 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (750 rpg)

Suspended armament

List of setups (1)
Setup 12 x AIM-9B Sidewinder air-to-air missiles
Main article: AIM-9B Sidewinder

The F-104A can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles

Usage in battles

The F-104A is a high-speed, high-altitude fighter-bomber/interceptor. It performs well in high-altitude flights meant to intercept fighters and mainly bombers at high altitudes. When the F-104A is fighting at low altitudes with a slower plane, the pilot should consider a hit-and-run technique to out-speed and return to the target to avoid getting shot back.

The F-104A has a decent stock turn time of 33 seconds which is the average or decent turn time of most supersonic jets at rank VI for Soviet jets. The F-104A will have difficulties when trying to hit an enemy less than 1 or 2 km away using the 20 mm M61 cannon since this cannon will take some time to warm-up before shooting and turn fights will also be difficult due to high-speed manoeuvres causing an average 8 or more Gs rendering the pilot unconscious for most of the time. Even though stalling should be avoided, it is possible to get an opportunity during stall conditions by extending the landing flap to give the plane extra nose authority, allowing you to control your altitude to a degree that can surprise most opponents.

Using the F-104A's M61 cannon against helicopters would be very easy since they're slow and most of the time is in constant direction and speed, while you are attacking from the side or back with speeds almost or higher than Mach 1, the helicopter won't notice until you strafe at them.

Unfortunately, the AIM-9B sidewinder missiles the F-104A carries are lacking at its BR. Most other jets at the top tier have much better air-to-air missiles which travel, lock and turn better than the AIM-9B. Therefore, they should only be used in situations where they cannot effectively turn or dodge, or don't know it's coming.

The F-104A isn't carrying any flares, so you would have to rely on the plane's decent manoeuvrability, and high speed, and maybe turn off the afterburner and maybe even the engine to reduce the incoming AAMs chance to hit the plane. Always remember the insane climb rate for the plane, this means you can also face the incoming AAM at the sun even when the sun is at a steep angle. This in turn would spend more fuel since you would need to use afterburners to efficiently climb at steep angles, out-running short-range anti-air missiles is tricky since some go Mach 1.7, while others go Mach 2.5, do not expect all missiles to be outrun. An alternative for low-maneuverability missiles, such as AIM-9Bs and the Soviet R-3 variants, is making a turn to cause the missile to lead more, followed by a violent turn in the opposite direction. Note that this maneuver will only work at a sufficiently high speed (around or over Mach 1).

Radars

The F-104A is equipped with an AN/ASG-14 search and tracking radar. The radar is mounted in the nose of the aircraft.

AN/ASG-14 - Target Detection Radar
Maximum
Detection
Range 		Guaranteed
Detection
Range 		Max Azimuth
Scan Angle 		Max Elevation
Scan Angle
37,000 m
(theoretical) 		15,000 m ±45° ±45°
AN/ASG-14 - Target Tracking Radar
Maximum
Tracking
Range 		Minimum
Tracking
Range 		Azimuth Tracking
Angle 		Elevation Tracking
Angle
18,500 m 150 m ±10° ±10°

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great top speed
  • Great rate of climb
  • Good roll rate
  • Decent high-speed manoeuvrability
  • Powerful M61 Vulcan cannon with a very high fire rate, great ballistics and high damage

Cons:

  • Very poor overall manoeuvrability and terrible low-speed manoeuvrability
  • Bleeds energy quickly in sustained turnfights
  • The cannon's high rate of fire requires trigger discipline
  • Air-to-air missiles are weak compared to analogues of the rank
  • No ground attack payloads whatsoever
  • Lacks RWR or countermeasures

History

The brainchild of famed Lockheed engineer Clarence "Kelly" Johnson, after having spoken to USAF pilots about their experience in the Korean Air War, the F-104 Starfighter was innovative in both its design and speed. Developed from the start as a daytime air-superiority fighter with speed in mind, the Starfighter began life at Lockheed's famous "Skunk Works" facility in 1952 to combat the Soviet's new age of supersonic jet fighters. The aircraft would incorporate the smallest airframe, combined with the most technologically advanced turbojet at the time, to create the base of what would become the F-104.

In 1953, the USAF showed interest in the project, and proposed an open contest with Lockheed and multiple other firms for a supersonic interceptor, based wholly on performance. Lockheed evidently won the contest and approval for two prototypes to be produced and, in February of 1954, took flight for the first time. Although it was slated to be fitted with the General Electric J79 turbofan, due to shortages of the engines the prototypes were mated to a license-built variant of the British Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire engine, called the Wright XJ65-W-6, until the initial power-plant was available. The aircraft however was not without its problems, resulting in a four-year long developmental period for the aircraft. By the end of it, 17 pre-production YF-104As had been built, tested, and used to iron out any problems that would be noticeable on the final F-104. In 1958, the F-104 would finally be available for deliveries featuring some differences from the initial prototypes in the form of a longer fuselage as well as the fitting of General Electric J79GE-3 engines putting out a whopping 14,800 lbs of thrust.

From the start the F-104A smashed records, taking the record as the first operational fighter in service to succeed Mach 2, as well as going on to take the records for both altitude and speed in both the F-104A and F-104C variants respectively. On May 7th, 1958, Maj. Howard C. Johnson, in his F-104A, set a new world altitude record at 91,243 feet, and 11 days later another aircraft set a new speed record at 1,403.19 mph. The altitude record was later bested by another variant of the aircraft, the F-104C, at a whopping altitude of 103,389 feet. In the 1950s, the aircraft had come to be exactly what the public had expected a fighter of this magnitude to look like. With a long, pencil shaped fuselage with short, sharp edged wings it encompassed the era of space flight and Sci-Fi with its design. The wings were one of the most unique parts of the aircraft, as well as its long fuselage taken up mostly by its large engine and fuel storage, and were only 4 inches and its thickest. Sweeping was only utilized on the leading edge, and a slight anhedral was in place to combat "Dutch Roll", a phenomenon where the aircraft rocks side-to-side uncontrollably. The wings, while helping with supersonic flight, were harmful to ground crews, and special equipment had to be issued to service these areas.

While having a history of accidents and high pilot attrition, the aircraft was fitted with an ejection seat. Due to the great speed of the aircraft at Mach 2, it was believed that the seat wouldn't have enough time to clear the tail section in an ejection scenario. Therefore, a downward firing ejection seat known as the Stanley C-1 was fitted into early models of the F-104. While a good idea, and in theory could work, the C-1 was also believed harmful in the case of a low-altitude ejection of the aircraft. After a failed introduction of the Stanley C-2 ejection seat, the problem was finally solved by the introduction of the Martin-Baker ejection system, particularly in foreign-operator's Starfighters. Roughly 153 F-104As were produced, with 26 more being F-104B two-seat variants. The F-104A spend a short time in USAF service before being send to Air National Guard (ANG) units, which some others being sent to foreign operators which had some success in their service. The first combat of the F-104 however wouldn't be seen until the Vietnam War, and while not having any kills to count was successful in keeping MiGs back and from intercepting friendly aircraft. The aircraft had a short service life in this theatre, only serving in 1965, and again from 1967-1969 until the introduction of the more-capable F-4 Phantom II by which it was replaced.

Devblog

The development history of the F-104 Starfighter begins in 1951, when Lockheed's lead engineer visited US pilots in Korea. The feedback given to Johnson was clear - US planes were too large and complex and would often find themselves inferior to the much smaller and simpler Soviet MiG-15. On his return to the United States, Johnson assembled a team of engineers and started developing an aircraft that would address the concerns of the pilots.

The result of this undertaking was the F-104 Starfighter, whose first prototype, designated XF-104, first took to the skies on the 4th March 1954. Although both prototypes were lost during testing, the results delivered by the prototypes were promising enough for the USAF to accept the aircraft into service in November 1955.

Soon after entering production, the F-104 quickly also became a highly popular aircraft on the export market. West Germany was, alongside the United States, the primary operator of the Starfighter, owning over 900 F-104s in its air force at the peak of its service career. However, 13 other nations also employed the F-104 such as Canada, Italy, Japan, Spain, and many more.

The F-104 saw most of its combat service with the USAF, most notably taking part in the Vietnam War. Furthermore, the F-104 also saw combat during the Indo-Pakistani Wars in the mid '60s - early '70s while flying under Pakistani colors.

In the end, over 2,500 Starfighters would be built, with most being gradually decommissioned by the end of the Cold War. Italy was the last to decommission its F-104s in the early 2000s.

Media

Skins
Images

  • F104A Starfighter flying with a full afterburner on a clear starry night

  • F-104A taking off

Videos
The Shooting Range #202 - Metal Beasts section at 00:30 discusses the F-104 Starfighter.
The Shooting Range #211 - Pages of History section at 04:15 discusses the F-104 Starfighter.

See also

Related development

External links

References

Bibliography
  • Military Factory - Lockheed F-104 Starfighter: website
  • Winchester, Jim - American Military Aircraft: A Century of Innovation - p.238-239 - 1, October 2017: website


Lockheed Corporation
Fighters  XP-38G · P-38E · P-38G-1 · P-38J-15 · Bong's P-38J-15 · P-38K · P-38L-5-LO · YP-38
Bombers  B-34 · PV-2D
Jet Fighters  F-80A-5 · F-80C-10
  F-104A · F-104C
Strike Aircraft  F-117
Export / License  A-29 · ▄Hudson Mk V
  ␗P-38L-1
  ␗F-104A · ▀F-104G · ␗F-104G · ▄F-104G · ▅F-104J · ▄F-104S
  The Lockheed Corporation merged with Martin Marietta Corporation in 1995 to form Lockheed Martin Corporation.
See Also  SABCA · Mitsubishi Heavy Industries · Fiat Aviation

USA jet aircraft
  Fighters
F9F  F9F-2 · F9F-5 · F9F-8
F-80  F-80A-5 · F-80C-10
F-84  F-84B-26 · F-84F · F-84G-21-RE
F-86  F-86A-5 · F-86F-25 · F-86F-2 · F-86F-35
F-89  F-89B · F-89D
F-100  F-100D
F-104  F-104A · F-104C
F-4  F-4C Phantom II · F-4E Phantom II · F-4J Phantom II · F-4S Phantom II
F-5  F-5A · F-5C · F-5E · F-20A
F-8  F8U-2 · F-8E
F-14  F-14A Early · ▄F-14A IRIAF · F-14B
F-15  F-15A · F-15C MSIP II · F-15E
F-16  F-16A · F-16A ADF · F-16C
Other  P-59A · F2H-2 · F3D-1 · F3H-2 · F4D-1 · F11F-1
  Strike Aircraft
FJ-4  FJ-4B · FJ-4B VMF-232
A-4  A-4B · A-4E Early
A-7  A-7D · A-7E · A-7K
AV-8  AV-8A · AV-8C · AV-8B Plus · AV-8B (NA)
A-10  A-10A · A-10A Late · A-10C
F-111  F-111A · F-111F
Other  A-6E TRAM · F-105D · F-117
  Bombers
B-57  B-57A · B-57B

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