Top Gun Maverick: A Fighter Jet Overview

Summary

In this article, we will discuss the various fighter jets featured in Top Gun Maverick, as well as the skill and technology required to fly them. We will also touch on the rarity of dogfighting in today’s world and the advancements in fighter jet technology.

The F-14 Tomcat and F-18 Hornet
Aviation Scenes in Top Gun Maverick
Skill Required to Fly Fighter Jets
Other Fighter Jets Mentioned in Top Gun Maverick
Advancements in Fighter Jet Technology
Conclusion

The F-14 Tomcat and F-18 Hornet

Matthew Buckle, a fighter pilot, discusses the F-14 Tomcat, which was the pre-eminent fighter in the mid-80s and responsible for fleet air defense. He also mentions the F-18 Hornet, a multi-role fighter attack aircraft that can carry various weapons, including GPS-guided weapons and can serve as a tanker. Buckle praises the filmmakers for their incredible job in capturing the aviation scenes in Top Gun Maverick.

Aviation Scenes in Top Gun Maverick

Buckle recalls how the aviation scenes in Top Gun Maverick had him moving in his seat. He discusses the skill required to fly the aircraft low to the ground, which can kick up dirt and cause G-Loss of Consciousness. The Ground Collision Avoidance System is a safety feature that can level the wings and climb the aircraft away from danger.

Skill Required to Fly Fighter Jets

Buckle expresses his love for the F-18 Hornet, which he has spent nearly 20 years flying. He also notes that flying a fighter jet is not as difficult as it may seem due to good training, even for someone who is not particularly intelligent or from a wealthy background.

Other Fighter Jets Mentioned in Top Gun Maverick

Buckle mentions the P-51 Mustang, a World War II fighter aircraft that was used for escorting bombers and ground attack missions. He also talks about the F-35 Lightning, a fifth-generation aircraft that has air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, electronic warfare capabilities, and stealth features. The SU-57 Felon is essentially a copy-paste of the F-35 with similar weapon systems and electronic warfare capabilities. The Dark Star jet depicted in Top Gun Maverick may actually exist and is based on the SR-71 Blackbird, a high altitude aircraft used for reconnaissance.

Advancements in Fighter Jet Technology

The speaker notes the advancements in technology and engines that have allowed for faster and longer flights with less fuel and fire. They also mention flying an F-18 Hornet at supersonic speeds and breaking the aircraft, but saving it by not ejecting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Top Gun Maverick showcases various fighter jets and the skill required to fly them. While dogfighting is rare in today’s world, advancements in technology continue to push the limits of what fighter jets can do.