Even nonpilots can look at an F-104 Lockheed Starfighter and see it as the quintessential definition of a fighter jet. The shockingly short, almost straight wing is a contrast to the delta and swept designs of its day. The leading edge is literally razor-sharp, a characteristic that compelled Air Force mechanics to utilize a cover to protect them from injury. And the fuselage, with its aerodynamic wasp waist, is merely a vessel to house a monster jet engine—or, as the airplane was touted by Lockheed, “missile with a man in it.”
A Starfighter Reborn
Key Takeaways:
- Retired airline pilot Rick Svetkoff founded Starfighters Inc., initially to perform with F-104 Starfighters at airshows.
- The company pivoted to a partnership with NASA, utilizing the F-104s for testing commercial spacecraft hardware due to their ability to simulate high G-loads and speeds.
- Starfighters Inc. now primarily focuses on specialized training for military and civilian pilots, including future astronauts, offering unique experiences like space shuttle arrival profiles.
- Svetkoff's journey showcases remarkable perseverance, as he overcame significant financial setbacks to establish his unique and respected F-104 operation.
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