The Talon first flew in 1959. The U.S. Air Force uses the T-38 for test pilots and flight test engineers training at the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Air Force Materiel Command uses the T-38 to test experimental equipment such as electrical and weapon systems. Pilots from most North Atlantic Treaty Organization countries train in the T-38 at Sheppard AFB, Texas, through the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration uses T-38 aircraft as trainers for astronauts and as observers and chase planes on programs such as the space shuttle. The Talon was also used by Jacquiline Cochran on several record-breaking speed and altitude flights.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Date

1959

Type

CRAFT-Aircraft Parts

Manufacturer

Northrop Aircraft Inc.

Physical Description

A single-shaft turbojet engine for a Northrop T-38 Talon

Dimensions

Overall: 273.1 × 53.3 × 66cm (107 1/2 in. × 21 in. × 26 in.)
Storage: 298.5 × 78.7 × 78.7cm (117 1/2 in. × 31 in. × 31 in.)

Materials

Non-Magnetic White Metal
Ferrous Alloy
Copper Alloy
Plastic
Anodized Aluminum
Electrical Wiring
Paint
Asbestos

Inventory Number

A20040215003

Credit Line

Transferred from the United States Air Force.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

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