The Northrop T-38 Talon is a two-seat, twin-engine supersonic jet trainer. It was the world's first supersonic trainer and is also the most produced. The T-38 remains in service as of 2013 in air forces throughout the world.

The United States Air Force (USAF) is the largest operator of the T-38. In addition to training USAF pilots, the T-38 is used by NASA. The US Naval Test Pilot School is the principal US Navy operator (other T-38s were previously used as USN aggressor aircraft until replaced by the similar Northrop F-5 Tiger II). Pilots of other NATO nations fly the T-38 in joint training programs with USAF pilots.

As of 2012, the T-38 has been in service for over 50 years with its original operator (the USAF).

Pictured here is a 1:72 scale replica of a USAF Northrop T-38C Talon jet trainer that was attached to the 469th Flying Training Squadron, Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, 2020. Pre-order! Ship Date: May 2025.

Dimensions:
Wingspan: 4-1/4-inches
Length: 7-3/4-inches

Release Date: ?

Historical Account: "Black Bulls" - Member nations of NATO combined pilot training programs to reduce costs and increase standardization. The US offered to host Euro NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. Participating nations contribute to the ENJJPT program proportionately to their use. The 469th Flying Training Squadron was reactivated in April 2009 as part of the 80th Flying Training Wing to conduct undergraduate flying training for ENJJPT pilot candidates.

In April 2009, the consolidated squadron, redesignated the 469th Flying Training Squadron, was activated. Its personnel represent 13 NATO nations and it supports the ENJJPT with Northrop T-38 Talon aircraft. It flys over 11,500 training sorties and 13,000 hours while training over 200 student pilots and instructor trainees annually.