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T-38C Talon Trainer Jet

T-38C Talon Trainer Jet

Manufacturer: Northrop Corporation
Category: Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
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Maximum Speed Mach 1.3
Range ~1,140 miles
Payload Capacity N/A (trainer – unarmed)
Crew 2

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	T-38C Talon
Manufacturer	Northrop
Country of Origin	United States
Introduction / In Service Since	1961 / Yes
Status	Active
Category	Advanced Jet Trainer
Crew	2
Unit Cost	~$1.3–2M (historical)

2. Dimensions & Structure

Length	46 ft 4 in
Wingspan	25 ft 3 in
Height	12 ft 10 in
Wing Area	170 sq ft
Empty Weight	~7,200 lb
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	~12,700 lb

3. Performance

Maximum Speed	Mach 1.3
Range	~1,140 miles
Combat Radius	N/A
Service Ceiling	55,000 ft
Rate of Climb	33,600 ft/min

4. Powerplant

Engine Type	2 × GE J85-5R
Thrust (per engine)	~2,900 lbf
Total Thrust	~5,800 lbf

5. Payload & Armament

Internal Payload Capacity	N/A
Weapons Bay	None
Compatible Weapons	None (training only)
Hardpoints	None

6. Avionics & Systems

Radar System	None
Navigation	GPS/INS, TACAN
Electronic Warfare (EW)	None
Stealth Features	None

7. Operational History

Primary Operator	U.S. Air Force
Conflict Usage	Training only
Notable Missions	Advanced pilot training since 1960s

8. Additional Information

Variants	T-38A, T-38B, T-38C
Successor / Future Replacement	T-7A Red Hawk
Notable Features	High-speed training, glass cockpit
Estimated Operational Life	Through 2030s

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Stealth Capability 4 / 10
Payload Capacity 4 / 10
Range & Endurance 7 / 10
Electronic Warfare 4 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 6 / 10

PROS

Proven, reliable training platform
Excellent speed and climb performance
Modernized glass cockpit upgrades
Low operating cost compared to fighters
Ideal for advanced and transition training

CONS

Aging airframe nearing end of service life
imited avionics compared to 5th-gen jets
No weapons capability
Maintenance demands increasing with age
Range and endurance lower than modern trainers

T-38C Talon Advanced Jet Trainer

The Northrop T-38C Talon is one of the most enduring and widely used jet trainers in U.S. Air Force history. First introduced in the 1960s and progressively upgraded over the decades, the T-38C remains a vital backbone of advanced pilot training, preparing aviators for frontline platforms such as the F-22, F-35, and F-15. The “C” variant represents the most technologically modern version of the Talon, incorporating digital avionics, safer handling characteristics, and improved reliability while retaining its hallmark performance.

Powered by twin General Electric J85 turbojet engines, the T-38C delivers exceptional speed and climb performance, reaching up to Mach 1.3. Its lightweight design and crisp aerodynamic profile make it ideal for teaching complex fighter maneuvering skills. Modernized cockpit systems, including a Head-Up Display (HUD), GPS, INS navigation, and multifunction displays, allow trainees to transition seamlessly to 5th-generation fighters.

Product Title Price in US

The T-38C Talon Advanced Jet Trainer Overview is not commercially sold; however, legacy unit costs historically ranged between $1.3–2 million (1960s dollars), not accounting for modernization programs.

Performance & Role

With a range exceeding 1,100 miles and a service ceiling above 50,000 feet, the T-38C remains an efficient tool for advanced jet, formation, and transition training. While unarmed, it supports a wide range of simulated tactical scenarios, making it a cost-effective preparatory platform for future combat aviators.

Continued Relevance

Despite its age, continuous upgrades and structural life extensions keep the T-38C viable. It will remain in service until fully replaced by the Boeing-Saab T-7A Red Hawk, expected over the coming decade.

Reviews

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Stealth Capability:

8
Payload Capacity:

8
Range & Endurance:

8
Electronic Warfare:

8
Maintenance Efficiency:

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