F-14 Tomcat

Image: USAF (SSgt. Lee O. Tucker) via Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain)

F-14 Tomcat

Designation: F-14A/B/D

Grumman Modern Classic fighter 1974-2006

Why it matters

The F-14 Tomcat was the Navy's ultimate interceptor — designed to protect carrier groups from Soviet bomber swarms at ranges exceeding 100 miles. Those variable-geometry wings let it fly fast when swept or carrier-qualify when spread. The Tomcat's AWG-9 radar and Phoenix missiles gave it capabilities nothing else matched. Top Gun made it a cultural icon, but the aircraft's performance made it a legend.

Specifications

Max Speed Mach 2.34 (1,544 mph)
Range 1,600 miles
Service Ceiling 53,000 ft
Engine 2x General Electric F110-GE-400 turbofans (D model)
Power/Thrust 27,000 lbf each with afterburner
Wingspan 64 ft (swept) / 38 ft (unswept)
Length 62 ft 9 in
Crew 2
Production 712 built
First Flight 1970-12-21
Service Dates 1974-2006 (US Navy), ongoing (Iran)

Armament

  • • 1x M61 Vulcan 20mm cannon
  • • 6x AIM-54 Phoenix (unique capability)
  • • AIM-7, AIM-9

Notable Features

  • Variable-sweep wings
  • AWG-9 radar (first look-down/shoot-down)
  • AIM-54 Phoenix (100+ mile range)
  • Top Gun fame

Patina notes

F-14s showed their age in the wear around the variable-sweep wing pivot points — the aircraft's signature feature was also its maintenance challenge. Flight deck operations left distinctive scuffs and tie-down marks. The complexity of the hydraulics and avionics meant constant maintenance access, leaving evidence in the form of panel wear patterns.

Preservation reality

All US F-14s were intentionally destroyed to prevent parts from reaching Iran (which still operates the type). Only a handful survive in museums. The irony is that the Navy's effort to keep Iran from obtaining spares also destroyed the preservation fleet. Museum examples are carefully maintained, but the Tomcat will never fly again in American hands.

Where to see one

  • • National Air and Space Museum
  • • USS Intrepid Museum
  • • National Naval Aviation Museum
  • • Pima Air & Space Museum
  • • San Diego Air & Space Museum

Preservation organizations

  • • F-14 Tomcat Association

Sources