Why the F-104 Starfighter Remains Notable Despite Its Controversial Combat Record

The F-104 Starfighter, one bad ass looking jet with an iconic name, is a marvel of jet design and engineering. It isn't as famous today as it once was, largely due to its poor combat record, but it's still celebrated for its remarkable performance and its role in airspeed and altitude world records.

World Records and Airspeed Velocity

The F-104 Starfighter established world records for airspeed, altitude, and time-to-climb in 1958, becoming the first aircraft to hold all three simultaneously. This incredible feat made it a symbol of American aeronautical capability during the Cold War era. At just 34 years of age, the starfighter's speed and performance were unparalleled. The M61 Vulcan autocannon, which it was equipped with, further underscored its military potential.

Design and Performance Challenges

Despite its impressive flying capabilities, the F-104 Starfighter also faced significant design challenges. Its stub wings, which were only 7.5 feet in length, were designed for high-speed flight but left little margin for error. These wings were notoriously unstable, and pilots often struggled to maintain control, especially during high-speed flights. Consequently, many pilots lost their lives, including the first squadron commander in the US Air Force, due to the risks associated with these wings.

Downward Ejection System and Crew Losses

The F-104 Starfighter was equipped with a downward ejection system, which proved to be a major safety issue. Unlike the upward ejection systems used in other aircraft, which are triggered and allow the pilot to exit the aircraft in an upward trajectory, the downward ejection system was more dangerous for the pilot. Many pilots were killed while attempting to exit the plane. One infamous example was a test flight in Palmdale, Southern California, where the starfighter’s skin glowed red from the heat generated by the speed, making it impossible for the pilot to escape.

Convert to Upward Ejection System and Safety Improvements

To address these safety issues, the US Air Force eventually converted the F-104 Starfighter to an upward ejection system. Additionally, a rubber sleeve was added to the front of the starfighter to protect ground crews from the sharp leading edges of the wings during landings. These changes helped reduce the number of fatalities, but the reputation of the F-104 Starfighter remained tarnished.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Speed and Engineering

The F-104 Starfighter remains notable despite its controversial combat record. Its groundbreaking achievements in airspeed and altitude set new standards that influenced the development of future aircraft. While it was fast, its unique design and the safety risks associated with it meant it wasn't as famous as one might assume. Today, the F-104 Starfighter is remembered as a testament to the bravery and ingenuity of the pilots and engineers who worked on it. It continues to inspire awe and fascination in aviation enthusiasts and historical buffs.