The F-14A Tomcat is a carrier-based jet fighter of the U.S. Navy. The F-14A uses the AWG-9 (pronounced “Aug-Nine”) fire-control system, which can track up to 24 targets (enemies) simultaneously and engage up to 6 of them at once with Phoenix missiles.
The F-14A also features a unique variable-sweep wing design. These wings are computer-controlled to always maintain the optimal sweep angle. For example, at lower speeds, the wings extend to increase lift. At high speeds, they sweep back to reduce drag. When on an aircraft carrier, the wings fold to avoid obstructing deck operations.
Note on the Fire-Control System: This system uses radar mounted in the nose to detect enemies, track them via radio waves, and launch missiles (the pilot controls the missile launch).
Specifications:
- Crew: 2 (pilot and radar intercept officer)
- Wingspan (fully extended): 19.54 m
- Length: 18.90 m
- Height (to top of vertical stabilizer): 4.88 m
- Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-412
- Thrust: 4,763 kg (9,480 kg with afterburner)
- Maximum Speed: Mach 2.34
- Armament: One 20 mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon
(Thrust refers to the force generated by engine exhaust. An afterburner is a device that increases thrust by reigniting exhaust gases inside the engine nozzle.)
Decals (Markings):
- U.S. Navy Fighter Squadron 111 “Sundowners”
- U.S. Navy Fighter Squadron 84 “Jolly Rogers”