March 2017
Developed for the U.S. Navy after the collapse of the F-111B project, the Tomcat would be the first of the Teen Series fighters, designed incorporating Vietnam air combat experience. First flown in 1970, the F-14 would serve the U.S. Navy proudly until 2006. The Super Tomcat was the definitive version to fly, with more powerful engines, increased range and a glass cockpit among other extensive upgrades. This version was also capable of taking off from aircraft carriers without the use of afterburners. Of the 712 F-14s built, only 55 of these Super Tomcats would be built. This example was part of VF-31 based at NAS Oceana and flown to Palmdale shortly after retirement, joining the Joe Davies Heritage Airpark collection in December 2006.