Original Item: Only One Available. This is an exquisite model of a US Navy T-38 Talon, a supersonic trainer that was designed and produced by the renowned American aircraft manufacturer Northrop Corporation. This aircraft holds the distinction of being the world's first supersonic trainer and also the most produced one. This desktop display model is believed to have been a "premium" issued by the company to its employees, VIPs, and distinguished guests. The model has a timeless appeal, even though it displays some age-toning. It is an exquisite representation of the iconic twinjet supersonic jet training design. The model is in excellent condition, and no significant damages are visible. Additionally, it still retains the base to which it attaches, adding to its overall charm.

A lovely example ready for further research and display.

Measurements: 13” x 6”

The Northrop T-38 Talon is a two-seat, twinjet supersonic jet trainer designed and produced by the American aircraft manufacturer Northrop Corporation. It was the world's first supersonic trainer as well as the most produced.

The T-38 can be traced back to 1952 and Northrop's N-102 Fang and N-156 fighter aircraft projects. During the mid-1950s, Northrop officials decided to adapt the N-156 to suit a recently issued general operating requirement by the United States Air Force (USAF) for a supersonic trainer to replace the Lockheed T-33. The bid was successful, in no small part on its lower lifecycle cost comparisons to competing aircraft, and the company received an initial order to build three prototypes. The first of these, designated YT-38, made its maiden flight on 10 April 1959. The T-38 was introduced to USAF service on 17 March 1961.

The USAF is the largest operator of the T-38. Additional operators of the T-38 include NASA and the United States Navy. U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in Patuxent River, Maryland, is the principal US Navy operator. Other T-38s were previously used by the US Navy for dissimilar air combat training until replaced by the similar Northrop F-5 Tiger II. Pilots of other NATO nations have commonly flown the T-38 during joint training programs with American pilots. The T-38 remains in service as of 2023 with several air forces. As of 2023, the T-38 has been in service for over 60 years with the USAF, its original operator. In September 2018, USAF announced the replacement of the Talon by the Boeing–Saab T-7 Red Hawk with phaseout to begin in 2023.