100 Super Sabre 101 Voodoo: The Ultimate Guide to the Iconic Jet Fighter

The 100 Super Sabre and its reconnaissance variant, the 101 Voodoo, were revolutionary jet fighters that defined the era of supersonic flight. Developed by North American Aviation, these aircraft pushed the boundaries of aviation engineering and played a pivotal role in the Cold War.

The 100 Super Sabre emerged as a successor to the F-86 Sabre, one of the most successful jet fighters of the Korean War. Designers aimed to create an aircraft that could outmatch Soviet counterparts like the MiG-19 and the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21.

The Super Sabre featured a sleek, streamlined fuselage with a distinctive area rule waist. This design element reduced aerodynamic drag, enabling supersonic flight. The aircraft was powered by a single Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet engine, providing exceptional thrust.

F-100 Super Sabre & F-101 Voodoo

by Greg Goebel

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3107 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	55 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The 101 Voodoo, a reconnaissance variant of the Super Sabre, incorporated specialized equipment for aerial photography, electronic reconnaissance, and weather observation. It retained the Super Sabre's basic design but featured a redesigned nose and enlarged wingspan.

The 100 Super Sabre was capable of reaching speeds of Mach 2.3, making it one of the first fighters to exceed twice the speed of sound. Its exceptional climbing rate and maneuverability allowed it to dominate in close-range air combat. The aircraft was armed with four 20mm cannons and could carry a variety of air-to-air missiles.

The 101 Voodoo, while not as maneuverable as the Super Sabre, possessed extended range and endurance. Its reconnaissance capabilities made it invaluable for gathering intelligence over enemy territory. The aircraft could carry specialized cameras, electronic surveillance equipment, and weather sensors.

The 100 Super Sabre entered service with the United States Air Force (USAF) in 1956 and quickly became a frontline fighter. It saw combat during the Vietnam War, where its supersonic speed and maneuverability proved effective against North Vietnamese MiG fighters.

The 101 Voodoo was primarily used as a reconnaissance platform, operating over Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Its detailed imagery and electronic intelligence provided valuable information for strategic planning and targeting.

The 100 Super Sabre and 101 Voodoo underwent a series of upgrades and modifications throughout their service. Notable variants included:

• F-100A Super Sabre: Initial production model with limited supersonic capabilities.
• F-100C Super Sabre: Upgraded with improved aerodynamics and a more powerful engine.
• F-100D Super Sabre: Final production model with a redesigned cockpit and radar system.
• RF-101A Voodoo: Initial reconnaissance variant with specialized cameras and electronic sensors.
• RF-101C Voodoo: Upgraded with improved reconnaissance equipment and a more powerful engine.

The 100 Super Sabre and 101 Voodoo left an indelible mark on aviation history. These aircraft played a crucial role in shaping the Cold War arms race and establishing air superiority as a key factor in modern warfare. Their groundbreaking designs and exceptional performance paved the way for future advancements in jet fighter technology.

Today, the 100 Super Sabre and 101 Voodoo are highly sought-after collector's items, preserved in museums and private collections worldwide. These aircraft serve as testaments to the ingenuity and innovation that defined the golden age of supersonic flight.

The 100 Super Sabre and 101 Voodoo stand as iconic symbols of the jet fighter era. Their advanced design, supersonic capabilities, and operational excellence made them defining aircraft of the Cold War. From their combat exploits to their lasting legacy as technological marvels, these aircraft continue to captivate aviation enthusiasts and inspire future generations.

F-100 Super Sabre & F-101 Voodoo

by Greg Goebel

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3107 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	55 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE