T-33 Shooting Star
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The Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star (also designated the TO-1) is an American-built jet trainer. It was produced by Lockheed and made its first flight in 1948, piloted by Tony LeVier. The T-33 was developed from the Lockheed P-80/F-80 by lengthening the fuselage and adding a second seat and control. Initially designated as a variant of the P-80/F80, the TP-80C/TF-80C, the designation was subsequently changed to T-33A. The U.S. Navy had a version, designated the TV-2, that was the first trainer used for both carrier and land based operations.
Almost 6,000 Shooting Stars were produced. Production occurred from 1948 to 1959. The aircraft held two crew members, and was also used for recon and in drone towing. The T-33 has served in the air forces of over 30 nations, and continues to serve for some nations. It is one of the most popular and easiest to acquire jet warbirds.
Many T-33s were built on licence by Canadair for service in the Canadian Forces as the CT-33 Silver Star. Brazil,Turkey and Thailand also used the T-33 extensively.
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Operators
- Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Denmark, Ecuador, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Greece, Iran, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Norway, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Uruguay, United States (Air Force, Navy), Venezuela, Yugoslavia.