Northrop T-38A "Talon"

The first supersonic trainer for the US Air Force introduced in 1961, the Northrop T-38A “Talon” continues to train generations of pilots in supersonic flight today. Appropriately nicknamed the “White Rocket” for its long, narrow white fuselage, the T-38’s maximum roll rate is 720 degrees per second with a maximum speed of 820 mph. Over 72,000 US Air Force pilots completed their final high performance phase of training in this fast, sleek aircraft.

Did you know?

Ross Perot, Jr. rescued and meticulously restored to flight status the Museum’s T-38A. Since US military jets cannot be privately owned, Perot generously donated the beautiful T-38 to the Frontiers of Flight Museum.

NASA trains astronauts in the supersonic Northrop T-38 “Talon” to practice adapting quickly to changing situations and provide mental experiences necessary in spaceflight. During the time of the Space Shuttle, astronauts also practiced fast landings again and again. 

About our Aircraft

The Museum’s T-38A, restored by The Perot Group of Plano, Texas, is on long-term loan from the National Museum of the US Air Force, Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio.

STEM Challenge

Why do fast aircraft have swept wings? 
Why does air speed up over a wing?
How does wing sweep increase stability of an aircraft?
Northrop T-38A "Talon"