"Jim Strand" wrote in message
...
Every year or so I post a similar version of this. Always nice to see
the comments. Seeing as how we have a few new faces around here now
lets have another go at it.

You are able to select any tactical jet airframe from the past. We'll
assume all engines would fit properly. What bird would you like to
fly again if it had modern engines and avionics as well?

My first tour of duty was at NKX when Fightertown meant F-4's and
F-8's. Always wondered what a new series engine would have done for
the Crusader.

From my generation it would be the following,

Attack: I think it would have to be an A-4. An afterburner TF30-3 of about
18,000 lbs thrust would have made it an even better "Hot Rod". I didn't have
a lot of hours in it, but it was pure fun.

Fighter: The F-8/RF-8 would be my first choice. It needed an engine of about
5,000 lbs more thrust. I would have liked to fly the F104 though, just to
see what it would do. I think I would like a ride in an MIG-21 though. It
was the "boogie-man" for so many years it would be nice to see what it would
really do.

For hauling ass: The RA-5C with the dash 10 engines of course. Maybe another
couple 1000 lbs thrust and the ability to pull 4 or 5 G's. A strong second
would have to be the F-105. Although the B-58 that made the low level
supersonic flight from Texas to Calif and back was probably the all-time
champ.

From later generation aircraft: I guess the only one that excites me is the
F-16. Maybe low level ride in a B1B. I don't get turned on by the F-14,
F-15, F/A-18, or any of the others.

Yeah, I know the B-58 and the B1B were not tactical aircraft, but this is
make believe anyway.

For me the winner would be the F-8. You never forget your first love.
Whether it was climbing out of Key West after a Cuban MIG, doing a vertical
pass on a Bear, or flying under the power lines in southern California
trying to sneak up on Yuma it was great aircraft.