This is the first time I have seen this site, great job! I was a Plane Captain in VF-302 from 1990-93. Have you ever thought of putting up a page for P.C.'s? Just an idea...Thanks. Cheers Mark Lodge

Member of the original cadre. There for first F-14 delivered to fleet. Transitioned VF-124 from F-8s to F-14 awaiting standup of VF-1. Participated in first pre-deployment carrier quals VF-1 as Maintenance Chief onbd Enterprise.

My uncle, Don Evans, was one of the F14 test pilots. Any information you have about him would be greatly appreated. ciated

This is a most excellent site. Thank you for your hardwork and efforts.

There is much interest in the F-14 as it approaches eminent retirement. Supposedly, during the 1970's when the Shah of Iran was overthrown, 48 of Iran's Tomcats were flown out to Israel. I couldn't find anything more to substantiate this claim. If it was ture, that would support U.S. desire to keep the awesome F-14 out of Soviet hands. Though its probably likely the Iranians donated one of their F-14s for Soviet military aid. I honestly believe that the F-14 was its worst enemy. Those unreliable TF30 engines caused many to Tomcats to be lost, and compromised performance. Its high cost and cost of flying one didn't help either. Had the Navy delayed the F-14 program to get the proper engine, perhaps the Tomcat would not been canceled back in 1992. Giving the Tomcat bombing capability early in its career, and taking over the A-6 Intruder might have extended its service life. Remember, when the A-6 Intruder were prematurely retired, the Navy lost a long range bomber. Foreign adoption might have bought time for the Tomcat. The British should have know that the F-14 is a far better aircraft than their TORNADO ADV. Getting Saudi Arabia to buy Tomcats instead of Eagles would have been a better idea. Finally, at the least, more F-14Ds should have been bought, perhaps two dozen more as "attrition" aircraft. Because the Tomcat can never be built again since all tooling were destroyed. That was very stupid, because new Tomcats might be what the nation needs after all!

My Dad, William R. Mytko, was an egress tech at Grumman. He started in 1949 and retired in 1992. He was in on the Tomcat's birth! I enjoyed the site and can't wait to visit the museum next time I'm in NY.

I am looking for a certain VF-32 emblem/sticker. I am having a difficult time trying to locate it. It is a large sticker split into three parts. It has a top banner, the shield, the lion, and a bottom banner...it is an older version of the current ones...any idea???

Great site. Best I've seen.

Great site! you offfer more information dealing with Tomcats then any other the web. I was attached to VF-102 from 81 to 84 I am looking for some old squardon mates. Jeff Baxter I heard he made AME CPO. Jeff Martin who live in New Jersey. Robert(Bob)Batemen who was in VF-33 and involved with the EOD. If you have any information regarding these guys please let me know

Impressed with web page...Just being curious...Does anyone know what happen to the F14s that where left in Iran???

ihave some books that someone might want.

ihave some books that someone might want.

MUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COMMUGU@MUGU.COM

Hi! I served with VF-2 during DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM; I flew many a T.A.R.P.S. mission all over IRAQ in 1991 and again 2 years later with VMFA-312.

stationed with VX-4 1977-79. Top gun, Yuma, Nellis<

hello, i had sent you an email concerning a photo of a tomcat on deck aftera landing. it turns out after i did some searching that this is aircraft #200 of vf-142 ghostriders. which was on the u.s.s. eisenhower. this photo was give to me by a friend of the family about 20 yrs ago and it is in perfect shape as you can tell by the attached photo with email. if possible i would like to trade with you for a squadron print of vf-142, vf-103, vf-154 or vf-41. please contact me via email concerning this. thank you for your time, wayne fariss p.s. i also enclosed my address with email i had sent with pic. if you would like this pic please let me know how to get it to you.. w.f.

Fighters always!!!!!!

I'm from Poland and I hawe fotos of ours SU-22M4/UM3

I'm from Poland and I hawe fotos of ours SU-22M4/UM3

Dobra strona zdjêcia œwietne oby tak dalej! salutefrom 6Fighter-Bomber Regiment Pi³a >

I served with VF-2 durong DESERT STORM on the U.S.S.RANGER.

A very nice website! Obviously a loabor of love for an F-14 enthusiast. Thank you!

Are you interested in any F-14 photos after they have reired?

I am a R/C model builder and I'm planning to build a TBM Avenger this winter. I'm trying to gather as many pics and detailed drawing possible. Can you help or direct me. Thanks Ken P.S. You have a very professional web sight. The F-14 is my favorite modern day fighter. Hard to believe its over 25 years old.

eu sou brasileiro e achei o seu site o mais completo e abrangente do mundo parabens

The history on VF-1 did not include the westpack cruise from April 4, 1978 through October 29, 1978 aboard the USS Enterprise. I was assigned to VF-1 during this time.

Hello, My father Ettore Borrelli Jr.was flight test eng @ Calverton 41yrs, Grandfather Ettore BorrelliSr. Bethpage 35,Me Ray Borrelli, USN VF-11 83-86 , Grumman,Calverton 5Yrs, Now American Honda Motor Co.

SERVED PROUDLY WITH VX-4 FROM 1976 TO 1979. WE HELP DEVELOPE THE FIRST SYSTEMS FOR THE F-14. I KNOW BURIED AWAY IN MY SEA BAG I HAVE SOME PICTURES FROM THE EARLY DAYS. I ALSO SERVED ON THE USS NIMITZ IN 75-76 WITH AN A-7 SQUADRON VA-82. JUST WANTED TO SAY HI!

Great website! I was in VF-51 from 1987 to 1990. Thanks for keeping these great historical documents in the public domain. Steve Molter

Aviation Electronics Tech, served in VF51 86-90, VF154 93-95, VF2 95-97.

I WAS A MEMBER OF THE DEVILS DESCIPLES FROM OCT 1990 TO FED 12 1993 IHAVE A BUNCH OF PICTURES OF THE F14S I TOOK WHILE I WAS STATIONED AT MIRAMAR I DONT IHAVE A EMAIL ADRESS BUT YOU CAN CONTACT ME BY MAIL AND I WOULD BE HAPPY TO SHARE SOME OF MY PICTURES WITH YOU P.O. BOX 69 PHILO OH 43771

Awsome website love the pics shows the great and true history of the F-14

I DON LAND HERE PLEASE KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

I enjoyed the site and found it quite interesting. I was abord VF-41 as an AD from Early 1976 to just prior to the rescue attempt in 1979 when I mustered out. I filled mech, plane captain and trouble shooter bilets on both day and night watches. I find it interesting you have no prints avaialble of VF-41 F-14A models from that time period. As a "Tweeker" you might want to add that during our first deployment aboard USS Nimitz we were the first fleet squadron to get our TF-30-P412/414 engines to 500 hours, West or East coast! I have the award pin from P&W to prove it. That was also the cruise for the first F-14 "crash" abord Nimitz, again by VF-41. Triple Stix (AJ/111) came back off a dusk hop at night and missed a wave off. I was plane captain on 107 when the night lit up. No one was hurt seriously as I remember, the RIO came down in the ships ALQ100 antena. The marker lights on 111 worked well under water on emergency, startling actualy. Thanx again, the site brought back lots of memories about the bird I learned so well.

I would like to purchase the VF-201 and the F-14prints how much$$ and how do I pay and when can I expect delivery?????

if I buy 2 prints is the postage x 2 or is it 1 postage charge

I'm a former VF-1 plane capitan (91 to 93) And then moved on to VF-213. I was the plane capitan on Kara Hultgreen's F-14 the day it crashed and killed her.(she was the first woman fighter piolt)

VF-32 91-93, VF-14 94-96, VF-154 96-98, VX-23 98-00, VF-102 00-02, VF-101 02

Doo Doo is still alive

I believe I may have some photos that you may be interested in. They're not of the F-14s them selves, but of the actual crash site where the first one crashed some 30 years ago. I used to live about 2 or 3 miles south of the Calverton, NY plant, and as a kid remember seeing E-2s and F-14s fly over all the time. Anyway, the crash site is basically a big sand pit, in which people have recently started planting pine tree saplings, I guess trying to regrow it. I ride my ATV in there now. The one problem is, that th epictures are at my house in New York, and I am currently attending college in Florida. I am coming home for Thanksgiving, and I could send them to you then , and would be proud if they were included in your site.

Enjoy your site

First I would like to say Hi to my favorite Pilot and Friend!! Hi Mr. Snodgrass and how are you doing? I really miss everyone from our Squadron, we were like a family. Its a shame we can`t have some kind of reunion. I have tried to locate alot of people but its like trying to find a needle in a haystack. To help you remember me I was on the detachment in Sicily to fix one of our planes that had caught on fire. When you test flew it you came over the airfield and broke the sound barrier. Do you ever hear from Mr. Myrick, Mr. Emory Brown or any of the pilots from Vf-142. By the way who ever runs this web site i have alot of really nice pictures. I also have a photo from my cruise book of the first Intersept of a Russian Bear. Mr. Snodgrass was the pilot and I was the troubleshooter that morning. Need anything drop me an email.

Enjoyed your site. I was plank owner of VF-1 and helped paint many of our squadron aircraft when we first started taking delivery. I still have some of the large and small decals used for the wolf's head. It was easier to apply than trying to paint them. Anyway, enjoyed your site.

it is good plan

I need some help. My father was in the air force in the early 60's and died of brain cancer two years ago, the type of cancer that most of the Pratt & Whitney employees are suffering from. Could it be possible to link his cancer from being in the air force? I don't know much about the planes when he was in the air force but i would like to find out. thanks

Great site. I enjoy all the information here. I've worked with the F14 for 32 years and it's been a great job.

I am a retired Canadian Air Force pilot. My hobby is Stained Glass and my Three Dimensional Stained Glass Aircraft may be of interest to your guests. If anyone wishes to view my work, please visit me at http://members.shaw.ca/stellarimages

looking for old squadron mates VF-1 83-86 / VF-142 89-93 / VF-14 96-01.

Love the MATS web site. I am an F-14 Tech Data Specialist at NADEP Jax and find this site very useful sometimes. Thanks!

Recently talked with Rub & Updog at the 2003 Cleveland Air Show. I wish I knew their aircraft number, but, I know they are part of the VF-213 Blacklion squadron. I am trying to locate pics of them and their aircraft. Also: if anyone knows their email adress, would greatly appreciate it. Thanks and stay safe. George Ward, Cleveland, Ohio.

Excellent site. AMH3 VF-101 GRIM REAPERS 1977-1981 AIRFRAMES/TROUBLESHOOTER

Great site and tons of very useful informations. Keep it up! Greetings from Hungary.

AME-2 VF-84 Aug1975-AUG1979 I had the time of my life riding flat-tops with the Jolly Rogers my main buds David Hay & "Rut" Rutledge I should have stayed in.

This by far the Best F-14 Website on the net, and definetly my favorite. I was wondering if I could become a member of the F-14 Tomcat association even though I've never actually flown the Tomcat or been in the Navy?

Great website, I love the pictures and the reference information. I am a big F-14 Tomcat fanatic ever since I saw TopGun. But Tomcats are more than just that, they are a way of life. My uncle, who works for the Peruvian Airforce, brought me close to a jetfighter when I was a kid and that was a very memorable experience. If I ever had to chose another profession, it would be as an fighter pilot. -Jorge.

F-14 Iran program June 75 to Feb 79 ,plane captain Isfahan

I thought VF2 was transfered to nas lemoore for f/a18f upgrade

Currently with VF-154 Black Knights, since May '99. VX-9 DET PT. Mugu from OCT '96 to OCT '98. Linked to your site from the A6 Assoc. site. Take care & Thanks! AT1(AW)Doc Hicks

Update from NSAWC, A/C 11/ 158630 flew into Fallon June of last year, it sat in the hangar until about a month ago to have parts of the 569 bulkhead removed to see why it cracked. The aircraft is currently sitting on palets awaiting the scrap yard. According to the Navy, what we have flying at the end of October will be flow away.

I was in VF-1 from 1982-85, Top Gun 1985-89, VP-17 1989-1992, VF-124 1992-95, VF-101 1995-96, VF-11 1996-99. CAG Staff 1999-01, HS-10 2001-02. Just wondering if you have squadron patches from the Tomcat squadrons I was in and photos for sale.

up there, with the best of the best!!!

Are there any plans to keep at least one F-14 flying after those fools at the navy retire it? I heard the USN wants to drone the F-14 and use them to replace QF-4s. The USN has really lost the plot! This also goes against their reasoning that F-14 is being retired early cause of lack of airframe life. Anytime Baby!

Greetings. Got this site from ARC(aircraftresourcecenter.com),but you probably know that. Want to checkout details,as did the post on ARC for 'B'and 'D'differances. Fave unit VF-31!! twm.

Very nice page!

Any Former Evaluators out there? Drop me a line.

KINGLOGOBERMUGU KINGLOGOBERMUGU KINGLOGOBERMUGU KINGLOGOBERMUGU KINGLOGOBERMUGU KINGLOGOBERMUGU KEEEP OFFFF MUGU IN LOME KEEEEP OFFF KINGLOGOBERMUGU ASCOM VS MUGUBOYS TODAY IN KINGLOGOBERMUGU LOME TOGO

I just read your specifications page and have a few things to add that I've read over the years from various F-14 books and Aviation Week & Space Technology: G-limits: the Tomcat currently has a peacetime limit of +6G's to extend airframe life. This has been noted time and time again in Aviation Week (early 1990s) and a few of the newer Tomcat books published since the late 1990's. During the tests of the F-14 prototypes in the early 1970s, it was determined the Tomcat COULD under certain loadings (reduced fuel, weapons) pull +9G's safely... The structural test plane pulled +9.5Gs, -5.5Gs... This was documented in an AeroFax book published in 1974 or 1975. The original design spec of the Tomcat called for +7.34G's. Speed: The Tomcat is usually listed as capable of Mach 2.34 speed... The original specification and design speed was actually for Mach 2.4, BUT one of the prototypes actually achieved Mach 2.6 (roughly 1700 mph)... The US Navy does, again, restrict the speed of the Tomcat to extend airframe life but ALSO the IRST on the F-14D's has thermal limits that have to be taken into consideration. The Mach limit on the D model, at least -- I'm not sure if the same restriction applies to the A or B models in service --, is 1.88 (reported in Aviation Week in 1990) because of the IRST, NOT the double-chin module that houses the IRST and TCS. I think the double-chin imposes a neglible drag penalty. The US Navy is mainly worried about damaging the IRST on the D models. I think besides the IRST, the real reason the Navy restricts the Tomcat's speed is two-fold: a) it burns a lot of fuel and NO PLANE has EVER needed Mach 2+ plus speed in combat, and b) flying at speeds in excess of Mach 2.3 can result in deformed canopies! A test flight on the old F-4 Phantom revealed the Achilles' heel of Mach 2.5+ planes ISN'T the airframe or engine integrity, but the fact that nobody's built a conventional bubble canopy that WON'T melt much above Mach 2.3! (I think as things stand now, I read in Aviation Week that canopies have to be regularly changed every 18 months because the material they're made of gets worn out by regular subsonic, let alone LOW supersonic, speed use! This was a fact casually mentioned in an article about F-4 Phantom IIs in Air National Guard service in the US. I don't think the material they used in those F-4 canopies is any different by much than what's used in F-14, F-15, F-16, or F-18 canopies with the exception that F-16 canopies are reinforced for low altitude bird strikes and are now coated with a light radar absorbent material to reduce radar reflections from the canopy.) Range: I don't think I've ever seen an OFFICIAL figure for the F-14B and F-14D, but what has been made clear through Adm. Gillcrist's book is that the F110 is LESS fuel-efficient at normal throttle settings (military power or less) than the TF30 engine. An F110 burns about roughly 100 more lbs of fuel per hour than a TF30. The fuel economy savings is really only when the afterburner is used and with the increased power of the F110, the pilot probably doesn't even have to go full afterburner (Zone V) all the time... Other than that, as those of us that read about the Tomcat know, the main advantage of the F110 is its reliability (it's rated WAY better than both the TF30 and F100) and reduced maintenance manhours. I think the US Navy is willing to live with a bit LESS range in exchange for greater engine reliability. Over one-quarter of Tomcat accidents are directly attributable to the lousy reliability of the TF30. F-14B Numbers: I think the US Navy ended up converting more F-14As to F-14Bs (a dozen more B model conversions?) even AFTER the F-14D conversions and newbuilds were halted by the Defense Department. I can't be sure WHERE I read this, but I've noticed looking at the numbers of F-14Bs in service, that it seems to be HIGHER than it should be considering attrition after 14 years of frontline service. There are usually at least 5 F-14 crashes per year, sometimes as many as 7 or 8. I think the US Navy/Grumman ultimately built around 80 F-14Bs, over half being retrofitted A models. Again, this F-14 website is EXCELLENT! I wish there websites as detailed for some of the other aircraft that interest me. The decommissioning of the Tomcat by 2008 isn't something a lot of people look forward to, BUT the Tomcat will have seen longer active service than the Concorde (1976-2003), at any rate... :) Personally, I think the B-52 Stratofortress is gonna be around longer than anything else! Heck, I bet the last US Air Force F-16 gets decommissioned before the last B-52 does.

Anyone interested in VF-21's Vietnam War MiG engagements/kills should check out my new book MIG KILLERS OF YANKEE STATION. It covers every USN engagement of the war plus lots more! Sells for $45 + $5 s/h from New Past Press, PO Box 558, Friendship, WI 53934.

Anyone interested in VF-21's Vietnam War MiG engagements/kills should check out my new book MIG KILLERS OF YANKEE STATION. It covers every USN engagement of the war plus lots more! Sells for $45 + $5 s/h from New Past Press, PO Box 558, Friendship, WI 53934.

Are the prints ever going to be available again? My father was with VF-143 and I think it would be great if I could get him one of your stunning prints...

You have an awesome site! I'm a Tomcat junkie! I think they are better than chocolate!

Great Site! VF-1 1976 - 1979. Plane Captain A/C NK106 BuNo. 158995. I was assigned to AIMD when A/C NK106 crashed in 1978. I am now with the 190th Air Refueling Wing, Topeka, Kansas. We fly KC-135 Tankers.

Served I VF-51 91-93

Hey great site. I was with VF-31 94-99, Strike 99-01, VF-154 01-present. The f-14 can never be replaced.

UZOAGBA

VF-124 1973 VF-1 1974-1976 VF-124 1976-1978

Great website! I'm an F-14 enthusiast myself, but I specialize in making models of the Tomcat (26 so far). Currently building the Iranian version. Thanks for your website.

Nice pages cheap flights airline tickets

This is a great site for info when you build R/C aircraft. I have four tomcats on the building table now. I'm looking for a tail paint scheme that is really hot looking can you help?

Amazing!!! Been a cat fan since the 80s and this is one hell of a tribute to the best AC built. Way to go and keep it up I will check back often.

what about the pilot's equipment? I mean the nomex and the other stuff

i don land oooooo

VF-211 (airframes/ 1976 - 1978)

I believe the aircraft that Mr.Sanders has photos of, as mentioned in his 6-3-03 guestbook entry, could be aircraft 1X, Bu.No. 157991, which replaced aircraft number one.

Made me feel at home again!!!

I have some digital shots of the Tom Cat that was at Dahlgren Naval Base back in the 1998/1999 timeframe. It was number 3 I think. It has canards. This are personal shots, but there is a couple of archived shots of the plane in flight. How can I get my personal shots to you? Dickie

Excellent job on the site. I was with the Pukin Dogs of VF-143 from 1989-1992 as an AT3. Any former or current dogs give a holler.

g.day from australia great site keep up the good work not much info for books in austalia on the f/14 just wondering would anyone have any pics on the playboy (bunny)F/14 would love to model it aswell as the jolly roger f/14 cheers mick

Great stuff.I was in VF-142 in the late 80's. I get home sick everytime I visit.

Great site. I'll send you a few pics next week for VF-31 and 213. LOVE the picture of the dude in the water for the Sea-Lions. Too funny.

I started with the Pukin Dogs as an F-4 squadron on the Enterprise out of Miramar, left them as an F-14 squadron on the America out of Ocean. As the only person in Admin and Personnel with a Secret Clearance I was the one that typed all reports that went to Washington when we had a bird catch on fire outside of Oceana and our pilots brought it back to be examined, I believe it was the first to be returned that malfunctioned.

Nice website...I served in VF-1 from Nov 1975-Jan 1980.2cruises about the big E and a partitial cruise on the Ranger during Iranian Hostage crisis.I love that plane.....I got my start in Aviation because of my naval service...Long live the Wolfpack

As former F-14 Program Director for GAC I have a special place in my heart for the Tomcat. Great job on your Web site.

Just wanted to comment on the best site for the "Turkey", Great site, had lots of cool info in it. Too bad that this plane will soon be out of the Navy (IMHO huge mistake). Keep up the great work Cheers Staffan

Absolutely amazing site, I have alot of photos to share. Will be sending.

I was in VF-1 from 1973-1975. In the Line Division.

THE U.S NAVY’S GREATEST MISTAKE The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet The path that the United States Navy has chosen to take regarding its future aviation assets puts it in a dangerous position. It is my belief that the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is not a capable aircraft to be given the role of sole offensive aircraft on board USN carriers. When we look at the Super Hornet which I prefer to call the Stupid Hornet we see an aircraft that first and foremost is the ‘losing’ aircraft in the USAF LWF competition, we see an aircraft that has been redesigned twice and still cannot get rid of it’s fuel shortage problems. This aircraft should not even have existed, and was in fact rejected by the USN in the late 80’s and now its defending US carriers. The USN claims that the Super Hornet is, “a most deadly foe in both beyond-visual-range and close-in engagements,” (RADM John Nathman, Naval Aviation News, March-April 2000) to put it plainly that’s the biggest load of bullshit I’ve ever heard. Lets compare the Super Hornet to the other new aircraft out there. The Super Hornet doesn’t carry Phoenix, so immediately it’s down to medium range, it doesn’t have an IRST or UHF radar so it must use active radar and can’t detect stealth aircraft, it has no thrust vectoring so it’s not as maneuverable as other new fighters, it doesn’t have super cruise, in fact it can’t even reach Mach 1 below 10 000ft, so it can’t get away from any opponents, old and new, and it has a marginal fuel load so it can get very far anyway. The latest generation of fighters includes the F/A-22, Rafale, Gripen, Typhoon, MiG 1-44, Su-37, and a number of new Chinese and Indian fighters. The Super Hornet is inferior to all of these aircraft as well as to the Su-27, MiG-29, F-14 and F-15. So in actual fact the USN is going to rely on a re-designed hand-me down loser from the LWF competition to ‘project power’ for the next 20 years, though how far it can project power remains to be seen as the Super Hornet has such a small radius of action. The USN has ‘remedied’ the lack range by changing its doctrine to littoral conflicts, we’ll see how that works after silkworm missiles hit the carriers. The employment of the Hornet as a tanker is quite frankly a joke, not only because it has such a poor fuel load in the first place but also because it’s airframe is not suitable to be fuel-efficient. The aircraft barely has enough fuel for itself let alone other aircraft. It amazes me just how stupid and blind the current USN leaders are. The future CVW will be made up of just Hornets and the way the USN is going they’ll probably put a radome on top of it and replace the E-2 Hawkeye with it. The aircraft that the Hornet and Super Hornet have or are replacing include, the A-7, A-6, S-3, EA-6B and the F-14. Wow, an aircraft that isn’t much better than an F-16 is taking the place of all these superior aircraft, so why the hell is the USN developing the JSF they all-ready have their all can do fighter, or maybe they realize that the Super Hornet is just an inferior 4th generation fighter trying to disguise itself as a 5th generation fighter. With India and China both keen to develop carrier fleets, that will surely carry aircraft better that the pathetic Super Hornet, the USN could find itself in a comprising position. The Super Hornet puts the USN firmly on the road to, lets by a shitty aircraft and hope we don’t have to fight anyone with better planes,’ remember the USN cannot fight foes like Afghanistan and Iraq forever. When the Tomcats are gone the USN will find they have the best carriers in the world and the most useless aircraft in the world operating from them. The Super Hornet decision could very well lead to the end of US Naval Aviation The Grumman F-14 Tomcat The F-14 Tomcat, unlike the Hornet, has never been favoured among those that provide funding, I don’t know why, maybe because good old Dickie Cheney had some quarrel with the higher ups at Grumman. Now that fool is the Vice President. For example the F-14 entered service in 1972 with an interim engine and yet the first serious upgrade only took place in the late 80’s with the F-14B and D, the F/A-18 entered service in 1984 and just three years later a new variant, the F/A-18C was flying. To top it all Dick cancelled further F-14D production in 1990, leaving the Navy with the planned Super Hornet, which was never intended to replace the F-14, because it was simply a stupid idea. In fact the Super Hornet replacing the F-14 is similar to how the British Government wants to replace the Harrier FA2’s with GR9’s. At least the Iranians have had the brains to keep this jet flying for as long as it can. Current aviators may claim that the Super Hornet is, “an exceptional aircraft with superb combat capability and growth potential,” (CDR T.W. Huff. USN, Flight Journal, pg.28, June 2002) but the very fact that this debate exists, that a fighter (re-) designed in the 1990’s can even be compared to a fighter designed in the late 60’s (the Tomcat) is testament to the fact that many doubt the capabilities of the Super Hornet. The politics involving aircraft procurement in the Pentagon has resulted in the USN being forced to operate a dog for the next 20 years and to get rid of some of its most valuable air assets. The Super Tomcat 21 would have been a far better and cheaper aircraft than the Super Hornet. Had that aircraft been procured this debate would not exist. There would be no debate as to whether the Tomcat 21 was better than the Super Hornet. Further more it would have been a cheaper aircraft to develop and purchase when compared to the Super Hornet’s $76 million price tag, a lot more than the more capable F-14D ($50 million). In the early 90’s when the F-14D was cancelled and the Super Hornet was just a paper aeroplane the estimated R & D costs for the F/A-18E/F was $3 billion and eventually the program overran to a cost of $9 billion to produce an aircraft less capable than the F-14D. It must be noted that the F-14D’s R & D dollars had already been spent and the aircraft already existed when the Super Hornet was nothing more than a drawing. In my view that’s a real waste of taxpayer money. Also one cannot say the F-14 cannot carry standoff missiles like SLAM, because F-14D’s can easily be modified to support these weapons. The F/A-18E/F is an aircraft with a new wing, fuselage and empennage, and is thus a new aircraft, F/A-18C’s cannot be modified to Super Hornet status yet the USN proposed this aircraft as a ‘modification program’ when clearly it’s only a Hornet by name. When new aircraft are proposed they need Congress approval and the Super Hornet never got that approval and is thus an illegal aircraft. What a scandal! The USN made a huge mistake by not pursuing the Tomcat 21/ASF-14, an aircraft that would have had a glass cockpit, better radar, stealth enhancements, supercruise, thrust-vectoring, more fuel (and range), less maintenance and incorporated all of the present and proposed features of the F-14D. It would have cost less than the Super Hornet, had 90% the capability of the ATF at 60% of the cost and would have kept the USN air wings capable and effective well into this century. For decades the USN has developed and operated aircraft that were the best in their fields, the F-4, A-6 and the F-14 and it is thus sad to see that the best that the Navy can develop and field today doesn’t even approach the capability of an F-14. During the Gulf War the USN was almost ignored by the USAF, but once F-14’s got Lantirn they became the primary strikers of Desert Fox and Bosnia, placed ahead of F-15E’s, while also playing major roles in Afghanistan and Gulf War 2. Once the Tomcat’s are gone the USN could find itself being ignored again. The Super Hornet simply cannot compete with F-15E’s, F/A-22’s and the proposed FB-22. The USN has now accelerated the retirement of the F-14 to mid-2007 supposedly to save money. I don’t see how that works as money has just been spent on the F-14’s to give them Lantirn capability and most recently JDAM capability. In addition to this, Tomcats were upgraded with DFCS and some cockpit enhancements were made such as the PTID. Now having just spent this money the Navy is going to retire this aircraft, which is just ridiculous. VF-2 is the next squadron to convert onto the god awful Stupid Hornets. It doesn’t make sense that a unit flying top of the range F-14D’s has to convert while other squadrons remain flying F-14A’s (VF-154, VF-211). I don’t think that those D’s are going to new squadrons, after all what happened to the F-14B’s when VF-102 converted? It just exhibits the idiocy prevailing in current USN leadership. Unfortunately it’s too late for anything, except maybe for the loss of a USN carrier, to get the powers that be to change the doomed course that Naval Aviation is flying so blindly into. One thing is for sure though is that the Super Hornet will never be a legend. F-4’s, A-6’s and the F-14 will remain legends in the USN. In particular the F-14 has a mystique and prowess about it that is unmatched, that’s one of the reasons why so many people around the world don’t want to see it go. However when the Super Hornet finally goes out of service (hopefully soon) no-one, absolutely no-one will care, the Super Hornet will not be legend, just an expensive piece of junk the Navy operated for a while, that’s it, no-one will care. Indeed the day that the last F-14 is retired will be the darkest day in U.S Naval Aviation history. Sincerely Neshav Nirmal Durban, South Africa

hi guys...hope you are well .great site on afantastic aircraft.we dont see much of her this side of the pond..(UK).. could you please tell me where imight buy some us fighter aircraft patches...web sits etc..

The Tomcat will always rule, the Super Hornet sucks, God Bless the Navy, God Damn it's leadership.

Great Site! Naval aviation has always been interesting to me. I served on the USS Essex CVA-CVS 9 from early 58 -61 as an arresting gear crewman, engine opr. Hook runner. Attended ABA school Philly 59, Later, Re-enlisted for AC school Glynco, GA.1967, served in Nam 70-71, Corpus 71-75, USS FDR CV42 CATCC 75 til De-comm.77, Chase 78-82. Have seen lots of Aircraft come and go. Have a few old AC photos, will share.

I was a Banshee pilot in VF-152 1955-57. NAS Moffett, and the USS WASP (CVA-18). Excellent site. I came across it accidentally searching for Chip (Biff) King. Too bad Grumman wasn't allowed to continue with developing a Tomcat replacement. I'm 71 now, retired from TWA as a L-1011 Captain in 1987.

Structural design engineer on original F-14 design team. Helped design the Boron skinned stabilizer. The plane still takes my breath away. Who do I contact for a ride?

Structural design engineer on original F-14 design team. Helped design the Boron skinned stabilizer. The plane still takes my breath away. Who do I contact for a ride?

I was in VF-154 1991-1996 and 1998-2001. BKR

OUTSTANDING Web sight, Kudos to you

above 20 years i love the F-14 TOMCAT

Great site about this wondeful airplane. I do like it ! As a carrier aviation fan, I desperately look for a USN pilot helmet (hgu-33/55/98)and/or oxygen mask (mbu-14/17) to put on display at home...If you can have such things for sale, please write me at laurent.michelot@libertysurf.fr. Thanks !

Thanks,I enjoyed the information. The Tomcat is one of the only A/C that I've never seen!

Retired long time F/A-18 tech rep. Long live the Hornet and Super Hornet!!!!!

Ijust came across your site for the first time tonight. Very well done, Torsten, with lots of great history. I was a RIO in VF-51 from '79-82 and made two Westpac cruises on the Kitty Hawk. During the second one, in late April '81, while flying with LT Farrell Corley, we made what I believe was the first ever gear-up landing of an F-14. Unable to get the nose gear down, we diverted to NAS Agana, Guam and landed "steel on concrete." After being "patched up by an airframes crew flown in off the ship, we flew the aircraft back to the Kitty Hawk just two days later. The F-14 was not only an awesome performer but nearly indestructible as well! Again, good job on the site and thanks for the memories!

Are you/were you a TomCat'r? This is a great idea!

I am a retired Canadian Air Force pilot. My hobby is Stained Glass and my Three Dimensional Stained Glass Aircraft may be of interest to your guests. If anyone wishes to view my work, please visit me at http://members.shaw.ca/stellarimages

hi i am restoring a f-14 cockpit so we can put it on display but the only problem is that I don't know how to open it. So yes if you know please e-mail me the instructions at gorila999@yahoo.com. thank you

I am so happy I found your site!!! I recently decided to start gathering memorabilia to put together a scrap book of my father's military career. Anyone that was a memeber of the Aardvark's that can assist me in my searches PLEASE EMAIL ME!!! As I recall he left the squadron in 1988 and anyone that knows him may have have known him by the nick names: "Willie" or "Sonny" Williams Thanks for your help and contributions...Jen

I am so happy I found your site!!! I recently decided to start gathering memorabilia to put together a scrap book of my father's military career. Anyone that was a memeber of the Aardvark's that can assist me in my searches PLEASE EMAIL ME!!! As I recall he left the squadron in 1988 and anyone that knows him may have have known him by the nick names: "Willie" or "Sonny" Williams Thanks for your help and contributions...Jen

The best F-14 site in the web!!! Thak you Torsten. I'm modeller from Poland and this site helped me to compose almost copmplete Tomcat documentation. You can see me Tomcat model parts on www.aircraftresourcecenter.com in Gallery, Jet Aircraft, F-14 and finally Marcin Witkowski articles. All the best to Torsten for this site!!! And GO NAVY!!!

Plane Captain at Pt. Mugu Flight Test/Mods 1972-1976. Iranian Program from 1976-1978 Isfahan, Iran. Pt. Mugu PMTC 1978-1983.

Hi, I have enjoyed looking over your website. Since I was a little boy the F-14 has been my favorite airplane and I always had a dream of flying it one day. I doubt now that will ever happen but my love for airplanes and the F-14 will always continue. I am a student at DePaul University. I love all the information your site has. Really intersting.

I would like to know if it is possible to gwt the Supeer Tomcat in a patch. Or a print of the tomcat on the ropes with the gunm two tails saying "anytime baby, anytime"

Great website! I was an AQ (Aviation Fire Control Technician) with VF-41 on their first cruise on the USS Nimitz back in 77-78 We had those brand new Block 95 Tomcats back then. The Tomcat is the air superiority fighter of all time. With the AWG-9 and AIM-54, you simply don't miss! It is a shame that the Black Aces have gone to the Super Hornet, but good luck to them and their new birds on the Nimitz again!

God i wanna fly.

hi, i just want to say that the f-14 tomact is the best fighter in the world. i have loved this plane since i was young.. i plan to go in the navy to fly planes like the f-14. well i love your website. so write me when ya'll can landon

hi, i just want to say that the f-14 tomact is the best fighter in the world. i have loved this plane since i was young.i'am now 16 years old and a 10th grader. i plan to go in the navy to fly planes like the f-14. well i love your website. so write me when ya'll can landon

I've always loved the F-14, but known very little about them. Thanks to your great website, if I need (or want) to know something about this amazing piece of avionic machinery, I know exactly where to look. Thank you for providing us with such an extensive collection, of F-14 information.

Hi from Russian fan of F-14! Very good site. But need more Hi-rez photos!!! Best regards. Denis

very good

Hi, great site, i found a lot of interesting information inside thanks :-) Samantha Williams

Outstanding site!!I enjoyed reading all the history on Grumman.I had the pleasure of living just a quarter of a mile from the Bethpage plant.Now it saddens me every time I drive by the plant and see senior citizen housing and a popcorn plant at the end of what used to be the runway.Anytime Baby

Sister of Nick De Lello, who was the pilot of BuNo# 160383. Served on USS Nimitz in '79 VF-41. Would like to know if you have additional information. Thank you Pamela Whitney

MUGU GUYMAN I DON REACH HEREOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

i love to visit america to see mr bush and tell himl to stop the homoside.in the world

I'm an Ex TARPS Technician and I enjoyed seeing the information on the TARPS program. Thank You

this site is a masterpiece! u hav done one hell of a job...its magnificent! congratulations!!!

Dear Torsten (a fellow Scandinavian, Hej!!): Well, I have lived many years about 200 metres near NAS Oceana, and I have many very high, VERY CLOSE, high-quality photos of NAS Oceana jets, including the F-14D. E-mail me sometimes if you want some examples. Hej Da!! William Deady

Employed at NSAWC, (TopGun), operating the "Oldest Tomcats"

Finally I have found a website dedicated to the F14. I looked at it for a short time, but only the fact that there is such a site makes me feel good. I hope to see a F14 in Holland before they retire.. keep up the good work!

This website rocks!

guymen keep off from hereoooooooooooooooooo

I am an avid aviation enthusiast and live in Norfolk Va and I have never seen such information as your web site shaires. I'm 20 miles from OCEANA and have never seen so much data. Great site! If you need anything that a local can provide, let me know if I can be of assistance. George

HI YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB I WISH I HAD SOME PICTURES MOVING TO FL I LOST ALL MY PICTURES

I would love to be Tomcat pilot. How can I do so as I live in Malta?

The F-14 Tomcats are the best fighters in the world. What would I do to be an F-14 pilot?

I read Pete Purvis' comments on his piloting of #6 that went down on 6.20.73. I saw the resulting smoke from the crash from my house which was 7 or so miles away. Since then my father and I both worked at GAC Calverton, he was doing wiring on all the F14 birds as well as X-29, S&R helo's, E2C's and the A6 family of planes. I worked the weapons system of the A6-F and F14-D. Also worked in Plt 14 Bethpage on the CASS program. Good memories of watching the test flights at Calv. Now the hangers in Calv are being used to make window frames and sheet metal products. makes one wonder....

F-14A Bureau # 159437 is Mig Killer. 1-4-89 Mig-23 Thanks

Hey there! You've done a hell of a job here, and me being a tomcat fan, this was like a wet dream. Thanx mate, and keep it up!

Hi, I'm your vivid filipino fan! Your website is the best, hope you'll continue to update this for us, fans of the great F-14Tomcat.By the way can you provide me a web pal, I mean somebody who is also a fan of the F-14? So that I can chat them via e-mail. Thanks and more power.

Hi, I'm your vivid filipino fan! Your website is the best, hope you'll continue to update this for us, fans of the great F-14Tomcat.By the way can you provide me a web pal, I mean somebody who is also a fan of the F-14? So that I can chat them via e-mail. Thanks and more power.

I note the pic of 157984 (aka #5), the plane in which I flew the automatic flight control system (AFCS) and automatic carrier landing system (ACLS) contractor demonstrations. As a result, I prorbably have more time in this particular airplane that anyone else. Gives me a great feeling each time I see a picture of the airplane.

I was the pilot of 157985 (aka #6) that Tank Sherman and I ejected from on 6/20/73. I published the story in the April 2001 issue of Flight Journal. If you want a PDF copy of the article, I'll be glad to forward it.

I served with VF-301 from approx. 1975 until Oct. 1978. My rate was AQ3 (also plane captain). I was wondering if anyone might know of any photos from that time period, especially the personnel within the squadron or of any of the F-4N. I have a photo of 00 (double nuts) flying. Also, is there anyone who would know where any of the people are located now, including people in the sister squadron VF_302? Thank You. Robert S. Hurst AQ3 6185 W. Adams St. Belleville, MI. 48111 734-482-7563

You brought me back 15 years by reviewing your web site. Tremendous job! I was in VF-142 out of Oceana from February 1988 to September 1990. My palms are sweaty and heart is racing as your site evokes memories of many close calls behind the boat as I sat in the backseat tightly gripping my rosary beads. Nice work. I'll review my old records from my PAO days and see if I can find some photos to send you.

Well.........i an fron Chile, and my english isn´t very good, but just say...........you page is just the best......your pictures are the best to make models, with the details and the resolution..........thank´s . Pato

Some sites for all F-14 advocates out there: http://forums.flightjournal.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&forumid=281 and this article http://www.flightjournal.com/articles/f14f18/f14f18_1.asp PS. From an engineering standpoint we can make the Tomcat fly forever. Look at combat aircraft still in service older than F-14's.

This is a fantastic site, which I access since 2 years. This site provided me with lot of interesting info`s about this beautiful aircraft. It`s a shame that they started to replace them.

I spent 17years working as a tomcat tweaker in VF-2, VF-114, and VF-124. I hav always had a place in my heart for an F-14 Tomcat, and will never for get to the times I spent working on the Tomcats. Go ZOT!

I love this site.. My only regret is the prints that are no longer available

I think it sucks that the tomcats are being replaced in 2010. I have always wanted to fly the tomcat into battle at mach 2, but I probably won't have the chance since it'll be 4 years until I can even join the navy.

I work for the Jacksonville NADEP,F-14 FST-3. Your web page is a helpful resource.

VF-24 VF-114 VF-124 VF-213

i have some impressive photos i would like to post here please e-mail me with the particulars.

This is the best web site on F14 I have ever seen. A lot of visuals on great TOMCATS in action. Keep it up the way you do it.

I'm looking for a Tomcat " Anytime Baby" sticker...Could you assist me or do you have some...Also, a patch with same and a super tomcat patch and sticker....Thanks, phil

Czech Republic

So many great memories, I was only at Grumman from 1980 to 1993 But I think of all my old friends both young and old. I miss them dearly we had a good thing slip through our hands , our family is no more. No company could ever replace the the Grumman Family.

Fantastic Website !! I love the way you design it. Maybe you should create a comprehensive book about the F-14...everything on this website included ! i'm sure its going to be a bestseller !

Great web site. I was with the Sundowners from 87-late 1990. After that i went to VX-4. Both squadrons wre great but i miss VF-111 it was a sad day in Naval Fighter History to see them go in 1995. Personaly i dont ubderstan why they did not get rid of a squadron like VF-213. I know that we had some bad times . But it seemed that they were the problem squadron at Miramar while i was there. Who knows you can change things now. But my heart will always be with the SUNDOWNERS. OMAR WILL ALWAYS LIVE ON. Thankyou for a GREAT web site. Eric Johnson

Very Nice!!

quite a good site to enter.Puoooo I de here

your page is the BEST in the net!!! THANKS. HBO._

Hallo Freind. Very Very good site of the World best Jets:F-14 Tomcat. Have you or do you make Wallpapers. From. Jan Pedersen Denmark. www.sitecenter.dk/f1-schumi

I love this jewel airplane, you have put together a wealth of information about it here. Thank you so much. I am looking forward for the day when my son -now 5- will get the hands behind this cute beast of the air. If all goes as the NAVY says, they will be replaced by 2010 when the new F-22 and current F18 super hornet replace all the F14's. Heck modernization has its advantages, we regular mortals may have a chance to "own" these aces.

My father, Don, was the primary pilot for the Number 3 structural prototype of the F-14A. He also flew the F-14 in the demonstration for the Shah of Iran back on July 26, 1973. Dad was grateful for every day that he got to participate on this project. He truly had a love for the F-14, and he wasn't shy about boasting its virtues. On the other side of the proverbial coin...woe betide the unfortunate soul who spoke a bad word about the F-14 in front of my father. (I was practically disowned when an unwitting date of mine spoke of the "superiority" of the F-15.) My father passed away 8 years ago from lung cancer, but if he were alive today, I'm sure he would be the one signing this guestbook as a fan of your site.

My father, Don , was the primary pilot for the Number 3 structural prototype of the F-14A. He also flew the F-14 in the demonstration for the Shah of Iran back on July 26, 1973. Dad was grateful for every day that he got to participate on this project. He truly had a love for the F-14, and he wasn't shy about boasting its virtues. On the other side of the proverbial coin...woe betide the unfortunate soul who spoke a bad word about the F-14 in front of my father. (I was practically disowned when an unwitting date of mine spoke of the "superiority" of the F-15.) My father passed away 8 years ago from lung cancer, but if he were alive today, I'm sure he would be the one signing this guestbook as a fan of your site.

RIO VF-103/USS Saratoga 8/72 - 4/73 VF-1 5/73 - 7/75, USS Enterprise VF-124 7/75/ - 12/77

Great Site ...Any Jolly Rogers out there? or crew members CVA-42?

the best wep page there is

the best wep page there is

we just wanted to say that we think your web site is by far one of the best that we've seen. we can tell how much you like this aircraft by the attention to detail that you have taken. please keep up the great work your doing, and we will be frequent visitors. we're not sure if you have a mailing list to let people know when you've updated the site but if you do, please put us on it. thanks again. rodger and lisa orlando, florida U.S.A.

The looks and photos are great. and i want to see it in real.Amazing!

Correction on my guestbook entry - it was at Calverton with the F-14D - oops!

Great to see this site...I was with VF-211 (77-80) and with VF-103 (82-85 & 88-92) and have had an extensive background with F-14's. My best memory was going up to the Grumman factory in Bethpage where we had a crew working with the Grumman people developing the F-14D (I was at Pax River at the time with the Strike Aircraft Test Directorate in the mid 80's). Looking forward to looking at your website from one end to the other!

Beautiful site!! From now on i'm your fan! greetings, Herman

My time in the Navy as an enlisted was spent in VF-1 Wolfpack 76-80. I was a plane captain and trouble shooter. My name was on bird #106 that hit the freeway at Nas Miramar 1978. That accident killed the UFO and parilized the pilot as the plane was inverted when they ejected. They were practicing single engine landings. Our squadron was the best f-14 squadron at the time. I am proud to have been in the Navy and associated with Miramer and the Big E. Ps. To all those from VF-1 who hung at Perla's. What a great time.

Here is an additional site you may want to check out dedicated to the Tomcat http://www.topedge.com/alley/alley.htm

I currently work on F14 program at NAS Jax and I love the airplane. I hope it gets a life extention beyond 07 but.... Anyway I discovered your site and I enjoyed it very much. Keep up the good work. Regards, K. Pete McDade Aerospace Engineer

you sure got it covered,too bad they are being swaped for the E & F hornets, what the navy really needed was more D/CATS Super Site!!

GREAT WEB SITE, WAS AND ALWAYS BE A TOMCATTER ......VF-213 87-89, VF-1 90-92, VF-124 92-94, VF-11 95-99 ALWAYS GLAD TO HEAR FROM FELLOW TOMCAT TWEAKERS.. ANY REUNIONS OR GATHERINGS LET ME KNOW.

Former member of the Iranian F-14 Team.

Former member of the Iranian F-14 Team.

THIS IS THE BEST SITE SO FAR ABOUT VF-142 AND THE F-14.I WAS ASIGNED TO VF142 FROM 8-88 TO 7-92.IF YOU NEED PICS OF THE SQUADRON LET ME KNOW.

I was stationed at NAS Oceana as a Simulator Technician assigned to several F-14 flight simulators; the 2F95 OFT and later to the 2E6 Air Combat Manuvering Simulator and 2F112 Weapons System Trainer. I was very pleased to find your site.

Great pictures of the F14. I worked for Grumman for 38 and 1/2 years 20 of then at Calverton's plt. 7 in both the F14 first flight hangar and in Flight delevopment. It was a sad day when the company was sold. I retired in 1994.

I WAS A MEMBER OF VF-143 FROM 87-91 . A PLANE CAPTAIN AND AVIATION MACHINISTS MATE. WE IMPLEMENTED THE TRANSITION TO THE GE-110 ENGINES FROM THE OLD TF-30 PRATT/WHITNEY'S.THIS IS BY FAR ONE OF THE BEST F-14 SITES I HAVE SEEN. ANY OLD PUKIN DOGS FROM MY YEARS THERE...LOOK ME UP!

Well, not only that I am extremely impressed about your site, but I never saw something so well documented, and I can say that I saw many. Also, PLANES are my big hobby, but I think that, comparing to you, I'm just a BIG NOBODY. CONGRATULATIONS! From Ploiesti, ROMANIA eng. Daniel Danescu

As a 30 year Grumman engineer, 23 years of which was spent on the F-14 Program, I am interested in viewing and purchasing photographic images and specific squadron memorabilia (sweatshirts, hats, cups, patches, etc). Could you supply specific websites. Thanks - Gene Lesserson

Dear Sir, I was reading your section on bomb racks and I came across something a little confusing. In the section pertaining to BRU-32's you discussed how the main CAD's produce the gas neccessary to drive the rack's hooks open. However, in the section on CAD's you stated the main purpose of CAD's was to jettison the store if no other means worked. After re-reading the passage a few times I realized you were just talking about the Aux CAD's, but the way it was written seems to suggest all CAD's. I know it's a minor detail, but I admire what you're doing with this site and I feel you deserve to have the most accurate information available. Sincerely, AT3 Jamie Patel, USN VFA-192

Great website..I was a yellow shirt on board Enterprise 84-88 and was there for the filming of "TOPGUN". I've got pictures of Tom Cruise in front of Tomcats from VF-213 and VF-114.

Great website..I was a yellow shirt on board Enterprise 84-88 and was there for the filming of "TOPGUN". I've got pictures of Tom Cruise in front of Tomcats from VF-213 and VF-114.

guy keep offfff

guy keep offfff

SIMPLY: CONGRATULATION. SUPERIOR WORK! GOOD LUCK. MAX (ROME-ITALY)

Great site! I was a Photographer's Mate in VF-32 from 1982-1984 working on the TARPS pod.

Outstanding site man, Sierra Hotel!!! I am following the Tomcat story since something new appeared in the skies over Saigon back in ´75. I don´t know, if you have - or if someone should have - any intentions to keep the list about "F-14 crashes sorted by date" rightly and orderly. Well, I didn´t have much time to check back with my own data, but at least I can add this, if you don´t mind: You are telling us about an F-14A/VF-201 crash taking place on Dec.23, 1993. This thing definitely happened exactly a year before, in ´92: During an ACM hop that F-14A had a midair with an A-4 some 30m SW of NAS Dallas. The pilot ejected safely, but RIO was fatally injured. The Tomcat (dunno Modex either) was written off. What you left out is the first F-14D(R) loss. It occured on April 13, 1993. As you well know, during 1990/91 the Navy was funded with 18 F-14As to remanufacture them to F-14Ds before defense spending cutbacks and other considerations killed the furthergoing project. This one (BuNo 161154/VF-11/NK105), the thirteenth to be remanufactured, had its history as an A with 2,732 airframe hours logged before conversion and just 73 hours as a D (shit happens!). I shortly went through the stories, Bob Sardo had to tell about the early Tomcat days aboard USS Forrestal in your guestbook, especially the Rick Hauck story about the tires. Reminds me of another funny one during testing I have read about once and a lot of you people already might know. For those who don´t, here is it one more time: Between two Vietnam tours Gene Tucker was assigned to NATC, where he played a significant role in F-14 flight test activities (1971/72). One day he experienced an anti-skid failure at a somewhat slow speed, approximately 40 miles, which blew both of his main tires. Anti-skid normally is to prevent exactly this from happening while allowing you to stand on the brakes as hard as you can soon after landing. This incident gave Gene Tucker the distinction of being the first F-14 driver to blow both main mounts and yielded him the award of a patch that showed a Tomcat on crutches with both feet in a cast! Keep up your good work, just say NO to F-18 Hornets and take ... number three wire, man!

Looks good but was disappointed not to see some of the Grumman old timers listed as contributors to your web site. I mean people that were there from the beginning, both at Bethpage and at Pt. Mugu. Lots of stories during the avionics test flight program there, including the one you mentioned of the AIM-7 that went astray and caused F-14 No. 6 to go down in flames. Both crewmembers ejected (Pete Purvis and Bill "Tank" Sherman) that afternoon off Pt. Mugu and still showed up for the Grumman Bowling team in Thousand Oaks, that same evening. And the first time the M-61 gun was fired, causing the port engine to flame out. And the time during the first avionics night landing, when Hal Farley looked through his HUD combiner glass and saw three sets of runway lights. Not knowing which set to land on, he settled on the middle set of lights and landed safely. That incident led to the removal of the HUD combiner glass and the use of the windshield to reflect the HUD symbol display. But my all time favorite was when a group of Grumman Avionics engineers were aboard the USS Forrestal when one of the NATC Patuxent Navy pilots catapaulted off the deck, with his parking brake locked!! He blew both tires, leaving two black streaks on the deck, but took it around, dumped his fuel, then made a beautiful landing, taking two wires. His name? Rick Hauck. Later he became an astronaut, being the shuttle commander of the first shuttle mission following the Challenger disaster. And one little correction to your history. The first crash of the F-14 in December, 1970, was not due to the hydraulic pump failure. That aircraft suffered the loss of both primary and secondary hydraulic systems. At the last minute some semblance of control was evident until the flight control system also failed. The real cause? The hydraulic pump set up a mechanical resonance that caused the titanium hydraulic lines to start cracking. This was the real cause of failure. Grumman immediately changed back to stainless steel lines for the rest of the production. Titanium was used as a weight saving program but unfortunately, these lines were not compatible with the pumps used. Hope this helps. Bob Sardo

EXCELLENT !! I am an ex-Grumanite who followed in his fathers 30 year Grumman carreer. I started at Plant 12 in Bethpage after spending 5 years in the U.S.N. working on and around the F-14. I was deeply saddened when I left with only 13 years in. It just wasn't the same company after the takeover. Since I left I have scoured the internet for Grumman related sites and I must tell you this is by far the absolute best site related to Grumman and her aircraft that I have seen. Beautiful Thank You!!

very well detailed I thought. However I believe you could add a real picture of the cockpit.e-mail me with any info on f-18 take over. I am currently on route to iraq.

very well detailed I thought. However I believe you could add a real picture of the cockpit.

Our family used to live in Hempstead NY and my father worked for Grumman Aerospace in Bethpage for almost 20 years. He worked in the plant five model shop making wind tunnel models and other displays. He started with the company in 1965 when Grumman sent him to machinist's school. He worked on the Tomcat and the X-29 projects. Every kids dream was to have a dad that worked around figher aircraft. Your site is very comprehensive and I enjoyed my visit

My dad spent his career at Grumman (Lunar Module program through the jets - A-6, F-14, etc.). I was/am/and always will be in love with the Tomcat. I have lots of patches, stickers, photos, etc. and am glad I found this site. Thanks for bringing back vivid memories of this part of my dad's life. Dad is resting at Calverton Memorial Cemetary and I visit the F-14 at Memorial Park when I visit dad. Thanks, again.

weiter so

Best F14 site ever!! Would u have list of sub-contracters. Engines, gear, sub-systems, etc.??

HORNETS SUCK TOMCATS RULE

BEST TOMCAT SITE EVER!! KICKS ASS!! good work

One of the best sites I ever visited.The F14 will always be the No.1 aircraft.

Thank you for all.Now I¨m working in a TOMCAT from Revell at 1/24.- All the information procedes from you re page, the kit will be finish like a cutting edge...really crazy.- God bless you.-

Phenominal photos!! I'll send ya some soon..

It to bad time is running out for the tomcat how much time ? and to be replaced by a bug a hornet but i like them to

Can anyone tell me the colours of the Tomcat. I already have the grey/ white scheme and all grey scheme, but for model purposes are they gloss or flat colours on the F14A. I already have secveral books on the colous subject but I cannot tell if gloss or flat. Some books say gloss grey / flat white but am still unsure. Anybody comment please. Graham Wearne

Can anyone tell me the colours of the Tomcat. I already have the grey/ white scheme and all grey scheme, but for model purposes are they gloss or flat colours on the F14A. I already have secveral books on the colous subject but I cannot tell if gloss or flat. Some books say gloss grey / flat white but am still unsure. Anybody comment please. Graham Wearne

This site is fantastic, Currently making f14 for fs20002 so the close up pics are ideal

This site keeps on getting better. Thank you for taking the time to provide TOMCAT FAN's like me a site that makes the internet worth having. I have come across a story about F14D's from VF 213 Black Lions which occured over Afganistan. I found it on the ARC site (www.aircraftresourcecenter.com )I was wandering if anyone has heard of it or has more info on it. It goes that a TOMCAT strafed some AL Quada fighters during a CAS mission the pilot was CDR CHIP"BIFF"KING flying a/c 101 Bureau # 164603. If anyone has more info or pictures of the jet (Of vf 213 F14D's in general please let me know. Thanks Jason TOMCAT FAN

Nice trip down memory lane. My association with the F-14 was from 76-80 with VF-1. Did the 78 WestPac on Enterprise and the 80-81 WestPac on Ranger. Had a most excellent time as a "final checker" "troubleshooter" on the flight deck. Being a few feet away from the bird while in 5th stage afterburner (A models, block 65) was a heart throbbing experiance, especially at night. Nothing like night flight ops.....Enjoyed my time at Cubi Point and at Clark supporting ACM with the AF F-4 and F-15 communities. Lost my DO in the bird that crashed on the freeway on final at Miramar...sad time just prior to deployment. I work for Vought Aircraft now (we are currently fabricating replacement Tomcat horizontal replacement stabs for the navy) and I worked for Northrop Grumman before that. I was involved in the life extention upgrade program and overhaul effort in St. Augustine, sure was nice to get in the cockpit again, although the aircraft is really showing it's age. I was surprised to see some low hour A and B models coming in for overhaul. I have a considerable collection of photo's, mainly carrier operations and in flight, up close and personal with Russian Bears and Badgers. You have done the bird proud with this site.

Simply the best F-14 Page I've ever seen... Great!

Simply the best F-14 Page I've ever seen... Great!

The best resource for the Tomcat along with Tomcat Alley.

One of the best F-14 resources i use for my personal F-14 novel. And if you were wondering, I don't work for Grumman.

One of the best F-14 resources i use for my personal F-14 novel. And if you were wondering, I don't work for Grumman.

It's always nice to have a break and visit your superb web site from time to time. Again, congratulations for your great job about the F-14; keep going on !!!! Xavier

Looking for any shipmates from VF-143 (USS Eisenhower)in the 1978-1980 timeframe. Would love to hear from the guys from the Mech Shop or Crud Crew.

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Great site! A tribute to a great aircraft and the finest pilots in the world.

Great page! It's the most complete F-14 page I've ever seen. By the way, when the time comes for VF-103 to transition into VFA-103, will they carry the "skull and crossbones" with them? Remember that the very reason why VF-103 took the "bones" from VF-84 is that they were afraid that it would end up in a "VFA" squadron. Now that VF-103 is bound to be one, where do the "Bones" go?

WE still had Phantom s when I left, Great Site,,

WE still had Phantom s when I left, Great Site,,

My dad was a career Navy man. I've been a great fan of all things tomcat since before the Shah decided he liked them better than eagles. This is far and away the most thorough i.e. the best site on the tomcat that I've ever seen. Thank you for all of your work and the enjoyment I've received because of it. Jim

My compliments to a very complete overview of our beloved F14. I am about to make a turbine-powered big-scale model of this beautiful bird and it's intended to be detailed enough for competition.

Really great website, thanks for all the time and effort. Scrap the Hornets, build more Tomcats!

I was the Supervisor in First Flight on the F14A. When it made it's 2nd flight, it crashed over Calverton. Bob Smyth and Bill Miller were the Pilots. Both ejected to safety. Reviewing the crash site, I picked up the Cockpit Mod. plate. It has been in my possesion since the crash of December 1969. Model #F14A Serial # 151980 Contract #N000-69-C-0422 Robert Santiago

It was a privilage to be a member of the Grumman Engineering Development Team (1984-1997). there is an old Expression that says all good things must come to an end. However, Grumman as an entity ended to soon. Our country lost a great asset.

Hi Could you possibly provide me with the e-mail adress to the company in Soesterberg that makes military patches? Best regards Per de Lange

Hi I love the pic of the f/14 tomcat anmd the f/a super tomcat

yea i have some tomcat photos and pic is tha tomcat is on its side with its wings spread perfect shot so if u want to me to send it just let me know

Nice website, thankyou for keeping the Tomcat alive. Tomcats Forever!VF-31 1983-1985.

Hi Torsten, very very good homepage. Very detailed and absolutely above standard. I´m a german military pilot student and just creating my own website www.militaryaviator.de I would like to place your banner into my link-directory if you like. maybe you can add mine, too. continue with this great reference and have a look at mine Thanks Bj

I wish i could fly in one of the jets! I fly from the computer "Jane Combat" is there one from the navy and for PC's? Love this site!!

Super seite !Hab mich über den iran teil sehr gefreut ! weiter so

UMU GUY MAKE UNA TAKAN EASY DEY SCATTER NET. KEEP OFF UMU GUYS AND NDI-IGBO!!!!

UMU GUY MAKE UNA TAKAN EASY DEY SCATTER NET. KEEP OFF UMU GUYS AND NDI-IGBO!!!!

UMU GUY MAKE UNA TAKAN EASY DEY SCATTER NET. KEEP OFF UMU GUYS AND NDI-IGBO!!!!

UMU GUY MAKE UNA TAKAN EASY DEY SCATTER NET. KEEP OFF UMU GUYS AND NDI-IGBO!!!!

As a plane captain in VF-101 I find this web site very interesting. I've visited many other sites pretaining to the F-14 and none of them can compare to the information you provide on this particular site..."congrats!" I was wondering if you have done any other sites? I also have a few photo's I could send in as soon as I could get them into the computer. Take it easy.

greetings from your birthtown süchteln ;-) www.soetele.de ( www.viersen-suechteln.de )

IAM A FORMER U S ARMY M.P. BUT SPENT 4 YEARS IN HIGH SCHOOL IN NAVY R.O.T.C. AND HAVE ALL WAYS DREAMED OF BEING A NAVY FIGHTER PILOT BUT I'M TOO OLD NOW AND BAD VISION BUT I AM TRULY AWED BY THE F-14. ALSO THE NEW SHOW J.A.G. ALSO HELPS ME TO SEE THE F-14 IN ITS GLORY IT'S A MAGNIFICENT MACHINE

Hello Here is great Tomcat Web! I live in Japan. I also One of Tomcat Fans. This is from my note. All checked in NAF Atsugi at Feb in This year. VF-154 F-14A NF100/161866 NF101/161276 NF102/161280 NF103/161293 NF104/158620 NF105/161271 NF106/161291 NF107/121296 NF110/161288 NF111/161292 NF112/158624 NF113/162697 Keep up your good work! Taka Okamura Tokyo,Japan +------------------------------------------------------------+ "Iron Birds Network" http://www.linkclub.or.jp/~ironbird/ibn/ E-mail ironbird@air.linkclub.or.jp IBN mailing list http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ibn/ +------------------------------------------------------------+

Nice site! I was with VF-32 from 1973-77 on board CV-67 USS.John F Kennedy.VF-14 was there also.I was an electricans mate 2nd class working on the F-14 Tomcat.I loved hitting all the ports of call,especially Egypt.We saw the pyramids!That ROCKED! E me if you were in at those years!

good to know there are OTHERS!!!

Great web page. I did notice one error in the loses category. The F14B/Upgrade that was lost in March 02 belonged to the Pukin Dogs of VF-143 while deployed aboard the USS Kennedy enroute to the North Arabian Sea in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Keep up the great work.

Fantastically well-done web site. I have found it very helpful for a special project on which I am workng.

Killer Site!! "Old fart" from 1965 to 1970 with VP-30 and VF-32. I never experienced the F-14 Tomcat, but after reading all your Guest Book I can say that I felt the same about Phantom II F-4B's and J's. The Tomecat was a most worthy successor to the "Topgun" of the sixties! All other "old farts" and other "bird" lovers welcome to E-mail me.

Killer Site!! Old fogey from 1965 to 1970 with VP-30 and VF-32. I never experienced the F-14 Tomcat, but after reading all your Guest Book I can say that I felt the same about Phantom II F-4B's and J's. The Tomecat was a most worthy successor to the "Topgun" of the sixties!

Great site. Was in Tomcats from 72 thru 94 when I retired out of 124. Served in VF-1,111,124 (3 tours),194,154. Before tomcats did tours with F-4s in VF-84 & 121

Cool site!