The F-100F Super Sabre is a variant of the North American F-100 Super Sabre, which was a supersonic jet fighter aircraft introduced in the late 1950s and operated primarily by the United States Air Force (USAF). The F-100F was a two-seat trainer version of the original F-100, designed to train pilots for flying the single-seat F-100D and F-100C models.
Here are some key features and information about the F-100F Super Sabre:
Two-Seat Trainer: The F-100F Super Sabre was a dual-control version of the F-100, featuring an additional cockpit for an instructor pilot or weapons systems officer (WSO). This allowed it to serve as a trainer for pilots transitioning to the F-100D and F-100C variants.
Development and Service: The F-100F was developed and introduced in the late 1950s. It served as a trainer aircraft throughout the 1960s and beyond, providing valuable training to USAF pilots.
Single-Seat Versions: The F-100D and F-100C were single-seat variants of the Super Sabre, designed for air-to-ground strike missions. They were equipped with four 20mm M39 cannons and could carry a variety of bombs, rockets, and air-to-ground missiles.
Supersonic Capability: The F-100 series was one of the first operational aircraft capable of sustained supersonic flight in level flight. It was a significant advancement in aviation technology during its time.
Vietnam War Service: While the F-100F was primarily used as a trainer, it also saw limited service in the Vietnam War, performing combat support roles such as Forward Air Control (FAC) and Misty Forward Air Controllers (Fast FACs).
Phased Out: As more advanced and modern aircraft were introduced, the F-100 series was gradually phased out of active service in the USAF during the 1970s. It was replaced by newer aircraft like the F-4 Phantom and the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
The F-100F Super Sabre played an essential role in training pilots for flying the F-100 series and contributed to the legacy of the famous Super Sabre family. Its combination of speed, agility, and versatility in combat made it a vital asset during its operational service, and it is remembered as an iconic fighter aircraft of the Cold War era.