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Description

The F-94C version of the Starfire was designed to do one thing, intercept and shoot down Soviet Tu-4 bombers (copies of the American B-29). The aircraft's entire armament consisted of rockets. Initially the rockets were all carried in the nose of the aircraft. Four doors hinged inward to permit the rockets to be fired. It was found that the exhaust from the rockets often caused the jet engine to flame out. Further development added rocket pods on the wings which helped to alleviate the problem of the flame outs. The Starfire was an interim design until more advanced aircraft could be deployed. Nevertheless, the aircraft proved itself during the 1953 Red Sun exercise when Starfires intercepted and "shot down" several B-36 Peacemaker bombers. A Starfire was also the first NORAD jet interceptor to score a night time "kill". The Starfire's short time in service ended when the type was phased out in 1959. There are quite a few surviving Starfires on display in museums around the United States. Prints are available through my website, www.markkarvon.net.

Description

The F-94C version of the Starfire was designed to do one thing, intercept and shoot down Soviet Tu-4 bombers (copies of the American B-29). The aircraft's entire armament consisted of rockets. Initially the rockets were all carried in the nose of the aircraft. Four doors hinged inward to permit the rockets to be fired. It was found that the exhaust from the rockets often caused the jet engine to flame out. Further development added rocket pods on the wings which helped to alleviate the problem of the flame outs. The Starfire was an interim design until more advanced aircraft could be deployed. Nevertheless, the aircraft proved itself during the 1953 Red Sun exercise when Starfires intercepted and "shot down" several B-36 Peacemaker bombers. A Starfire was also the first NORAD jet interceptor to score a night time "kill". The Starfire's short time in service ended when the type was phased out in 1959. There are quite a few surviving Starfires on display in museums around the United States. Prints are available through my website, www.markkarvon.net.