Northrop T-38 Talon

shaydis13 🇺🇸

22 Mar 2026 · © shaydis13

T-38 Talons on the poles at OWA Owatonna Degner Regional Airport in the Thunderbirds livery.

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Aircraft

T-38 Talon T-38

USAF Thunderbirds Demonstration Team

Manufacturer

Northrop

Gear

Iphone 16 Pro Max

Achievements

Retro Wings, Vintage Voyager, Livery Legend, Military Maverick

4 badges earned

Location

Owatonna Degner Regional Airport

OWA/KOWA

44.1234, -93.2606

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Owatonna Degner Regional Airport OWA

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

One of the most-produced modern jet fighters, core to USAF and allied fleets since the 1970s. The Thunderbirds are the USAF’s premier aerobatic demonstration team and a symbol of American airpower.

Fleet Rarity

The Thunderbirds operate six demonstration F-16Cs each show season; F-16 overall is not rare but Thunderbirds aircraft are unique for their livery.

Record Flights

Thunderbirds perform aerobatic displays at airshows worldwide; set records for aerial precision and training.

Safety & Events

Numerous airshow performances; several incidents involving Thunderbirds during practice and shows, but also celebrated for safety and professionalism.

Future Outlook

Thunderbirds expected to continue with the F-16C for the next several years; these display aircraft are preserved as gate guards/static displays at bases and aviation museums after retirement.

Specifications

9.96 meters

Wingspan

15.06 meters

Length

4,220 kilometers (ferry range with drop tanks)

Range

917 kilometers per hour

Speed

Pilot only (single-seat combat aircraft)

Capacity

16,875 kilograms

MTOW

4.88 meters

Height

Approximately 129 kN (29,000 lbf) with afterburner

Thrust

Typically 130-140 dB at source, military exemption from ICAO standards

Noise