Intro
Discover the iconic aircraft flown by the US Navys elite aerobatic team, the Blue Angels. Learn about the 5 planes theyve flown, including the F-4 Phantom, A-4 Skyhawk, and F/A-18 Hornet. Get an inside look at the teams history, aircraft specs, and the evolution of their fleet, highlighting their precision flying and naval aviation heritage.
The Blue Angels, the renowned U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, has been thrilling audiences with their breathtaking aerial performances for over 70 years. As one of the most iconic flight teams in the world, the Blue Angels have had the privilege of flying some of the most advanced and impressive aircraft in the history of military aviation. In this article, we will take a look at five planes that the Blue Angels have flown over the years, each with its unique characteristics and capabilities.
1. F9F Panther
The F9F Panther was the first jet-powered aircraft flown by the Blue Angels, introduced in 1949. The F9F was a single-seat, straight-winged jet fighter that served as the primary aircraft of the squadron for three years. During this period, the Blue Angels performed their first-ever jet-powered demonstration, marking a significant milestone in the team's history.
Key Features of the F9F Panther:
- Length: 37 ft 5 in (11.4 m)
- Wingspan: 38 ft 10 in (11.8 m)
- Empty weight: 7,070 lb (3,205 kg)
- Powerplant: 1 x General Electric J48-GE-2 turbojet engine, 6,250 lb (28.0 kN) thrust
2. F-11 Tiger
The F-11 Tiger was a single-seat, swept-winged jet fighter that served as the Blue Angels' primary aircraft from 1954 to 1958. The F-11 was a significant improvement over the F9F Panther, featuring a more powerful engine and improved aerodynamics.
Key Features of the F-11 Tiger:
- Length: 40 ft 4 in (12.3 m)
- Wingspan: 31 ft 6 in (9.6 m)
- Empty weight: 8,350 lb (3,791 kg)
- Powerplant: 1 x General Electric J73-GE-3 turbojet engine, 8,650 lb (38.5 kN) thrust
3. F4D Skyray
The F4D Skyray was a single-seat, delta-winged jet fighter that served as the Blue Angels' primary aircraft from 1956 to 1964. The F4D was a highly advanced aircraft for its time, featuring a unique delta-wing design and a powerful engine.
Key Features of the F4D Skyray:
- Length: 40 ft 9 in (12.4 m)
- Wingspan: 33 ft 6 in (10.2 m)
- Empty weight: 9,680 lb (4,400 kg)
- Powerplant: 1 x Pratt & Whitney J57-P-4 turbojet engine, 16,000 lb (71.2 kN) thrust
4. F-4 Phantom II
The F-4 Phantom II was a twin-seat, twin-engine jet fighter that served as the Blue Angels' primary aircraft from 1969 to 1974. The F-4 was a highly advanced aircraft for its time, featuring a powerful engine and advanced avionics.
Key Features of the F-4 Phantom II:
- Length: 63 ft 0 in (19.2 m)
- Wingspan: 38 ft 5 in (11.7 m)
- Empty weight: 30,328 lb (13,759 kg)
- Powerplant: 2 x General Electric J79-GE-17 turbojet engines, 17,000 lb (75.6 kN) thrust each
5. F/A-18 Hornet
The F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-seat, multi-role jet fighter that has served as the Blue Angels' primary aircraft since 1986. The F/A-18 is a highly advanced aircraft, featuring a powerful engine and advanced avionics.
Key Features of the F/A-18 Hornet:
- Length: 56 ft 1 in (17.1 m)
- Wingspan: 40 ft 5 in (12.3 m)
- Empty weight: 24,700 lb (11,206 kg)
- Powerplant: 2 x General Electric F404-GE-402 turbofan engines, 18,000 lb (80.1 kN) thrust each
Blue Angels Aircraft Gallery
What is the Blue Angels' primary mission?
+The Blue Angels' primary mission is to showcase the capabilities of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps through flight demonstrations and community outreach programs.
What aircraft has the Blue Angels flown the longest?
+The Blue Angels have flown the F/A-18 Hornet since 1986, making it the longest-serving aircraft in the team's history.
How many pilots are on the Blue Angels team?
+The Blue Angels team consists of 16 officers, including 6 pilots, 2 maintenance officers, and 8 enlisted personnel.
What is the Blue Angels' flight demonstration routine?
+The Blue Angels' flight demonstration routine includes a variety of aerial maneuvers, including formations, solo performances, and precision flying.
As the Blue Angels continue to thrill audiences around the world, their legacy as one of the most iconic flight teams in history remains unwavering. With their cutting-edge aircraft and precision flying skills, the Blue Angels will undoubtedly remain a beloved and respected institution for generations to come.