Intro
Get ready to feel the need for speed with the 5 Top Gun Maverick jets you need to know. From the iconic F-14 Tomcat to the cutting-edge F/A-18 Hornet, explore the supersonic aircraft that made Tom Cruises Maverick a legend. Learn about their specs, capabilities, and roles in the movie, and discover the thrill of these real-life fighter jets.
The highly anticipated movie Top Gun: Maverick has finally hit theaters, and fans of the original are thrilled to see the return of Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, played by Tom Cruise, back in the cockpit. The sequel promises to deliver high-octane action, heart-pumping aerial stunts, and a glimpse into the lives of elite fighter pilots. As we dive into the world of Top Gun, let's take a closer look at some of the most iconic jets featured in the movie.
1. F/A-18 Hornet
The F/A-18 Hornet is a multirole fighter jet that has been a mainstay of the US Navy's fleet for decades. In the original Top Gun, the F-14 Tomcat was the star of the show, but in Top Gun: Maverick, the F/A-18 takes center stage. The Hornet's versatility and reliability make it an excellent choice for a variety of missions, from air-to-air combat to ground attacks.
F/A-18 Hornet Specifications
- Length: 56 feet 1 inch (17.1 meters)
- Wingspan: 40 feet 5 inches (12.3 meters)
- Height: 15 feet 3 inches (4.7 meters)
- Top Speed: Mach 1.8 (1,190 mph or 1,915 km/h)
2. F-14 Tomcat
Although the F-14 Tomcat is no longer in service with the US Navy, it remains an iconic symbol of the Top Gun franchise. The Tomcat's unique swing-wing design and impressive speed made it a formidable opponent in the skies. In Top Gun: Maverick, the F-14 makes a nostalgic appearance, reminding fans of the original movie's aerial action.
F-14 Tomcat Specifications
- Length: 62 feet 9 inches (19.1 meters)
- Wingspan: 38 feet 2 inches (11.6 meters)
- Height: 16 feet 1 inch (4.9 meters)
- Top Speed: Mach 2.34 (1,544 mph or 2,485 km/h)
3. F-35C Lightning II
The F-35C Lightning II is the US Navy's newest fifth-generation fighter jet, designed to provide advanced stealth capabilities and unparalleled situational awareness. In Top Gun: Maverick, the F-35C makes its Hollywood debut, showcasing its cutting-edge technology and impressive performance.
F-35C Lightning II Specifications
- Length: 51 feet 2 inches (15.6 meters)
- Wingspan: 35 feet 4 inches (10.8 meters)
- Height: 14 feet 7 inches (4.5 meters)
- Top Speed: Mach 1.6 (1,200 mph or 1,931 km/h)
4. P-51 Mustang
The P-51 Mustang is a legendary World War II-era fighter plane that has become an iconic symbol of American aviation. In Top Gun: Maverick, the P-51 makes a surprise appearance, paying tribute to the rich history of military aviation.
P-51 Mustang Specifications
- Length: 37 feet 5 inches (11.4 meters)
- Wingspan: 37 feet 2 inches (11.3 meters)
- Height: 12 feet 2 inches (3.7 meters)
- Top Speed: 440 mph (708 km/h)
5. Darkstar
The Darkstar is a fictional, cutting-edge fighter jet featured prominently in Top Gun: Maverick. While its exact specifications are classified, the Darkstar's sleek design and advanced capabilities make it a formidable opponent in the skies.
Darkstar Specifications (rumored)
- Length: unknown
- Wingspan: unknown
- Height: unknown
- Top Speed: Mach 3+ (estimated)
Top Gun: Maverick Jets Image Gallery
As the world of Top Gun: Maverick continues to captivate audiences, these iconic jets have become an integral part of the movie's success. From the sleek design of the Darkstar to the nostalgic appearance of the F-14 Tomcat, each jet plays a unique role in the film's aerial action. Whether you're a fan of military aviation or just enjoy the thrill of high-octane action, Top Gun: Maverick is sure to deliver.
Share your thoughts on the Top Gun: Maverick jets in the comments below! Which jet is your favorite, and why?